Prince Harry and Megan make debut visit to Nigeria for mental health advocacy: summary

FILE PHOTO: Harry and Meghan attend event marking the World Mental Health Day in New York

FILE PHOTO: Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex attend a panel held during Project Healthy Minds' second annual World Mental Health Day Festival and The Archewell Foundation Parents' Summit: Mental Wellness in the Digital Age in New York City, U.S., October 10, 2023. REUTERS/Mike Segar/File Photo

Source: REUTERS

What we know

Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle embarked on their inaugural journey to Nigeria. The royal couple's expedition was prompted by their involvement in the Invictus Games, an esteemed international sporting event initiated by Prince Harry a decade ago, dedicated to military personnel wounded in action.
During their visit to Nigeria's capital, Abuja, on Friday, the couple immersed themselves in discussions surrounding mental health at a local school, drawing vibrant cheers, songs, and dances from the enthusiastic crowd. Prince Harry revealed Nigeria's keen interest in hosting the 2029 edition of the Invictus Games.
Following their engagement in Abuja, the Duke of Sussex journeyed to northern Kaduna, where he met with wounded soldiers, showcasing his ongoing commitment to supporting veterans and their rehabilitation efforts. The 39-year-old royal then proceeded to a military hospital in Kaduna, where he personally interacted with injured servicemen.
Prince Harry and Meghan visited the Lightway Academy in Abuja, an educational institution operated by a non-profit organization backed by their Archewell Foundation. The couple received an exuberant welcome, with cheers echoing through the school premises, accompanied by performances from local dancers and singers
The couple, invited to Nigeria by Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa, were briefed on the country's security challenges, including threats from armed criminal gangs and jihadists, with improvised explosive devices posing the greatest challenge

What they said

Speaking on the stigma surrounding mental health, Prince Harry said "Too many people don't want to talk about it 'cause it's invisible. Every single person in this room... has mental health. So therefore, you have to look after yourself to be able to look after other people," he added, emphasising the importance of self-care and destigmatisation. Expressing gratitude for the students' enthusiasm, Megan added "We’re so honored to be with you. We have got to acknowledge those amazing dance moves! My husband was excited to jump up!. Will you promise us that after today, no more being scared, no more being unsure of mental health. If you are unsure, then ask. Just make sure that you are taking care of yourselves and that begins with your mental health by really talking about whatever's coming up for you," Reuters quotes.

Etornam Kornu