The Defence Headquarters has commenced the construction of Nigeria’s first Invictus Centre, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to the rehabilitation and total care of wounded, injured, and sick frontline soldiers.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony in Abuja on Friday, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, described the project as a significant step in ensuring the well-being of military personnel who have sustained both physical and psychological wounds in the line of duty.

“The military profession is one of the most demanding and perilous careers in the world. It requires physical strength, technical expertise, mental resilience, emotional fortitude, and unwavering commitment to duty,” General Musa stated.

He emphasized the need for society to recognize the sacrifices of military personnel by providing adequate support for their physical and mental well-being, ensuring that veterans receive proper care after service.

Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, described the project as the first of its kind in Africa, highlighting its role in supporting the rehabilitation and psychological recovery of military personnel.

“Our soldiers are the pillars of our nation’s security and freedom. Many return with both visible and invisible scars, and some make sacrifices that cannot be measured,” the minister said.

“In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, this centre will offer a place for recovery, reintegration, and development through health and wellness programs, as well as social activities like sports.”

The Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, represented at the event by David Wiseman, commended the initiative as a major milestone for recovery and rehabilitation in Nigeria’s armed forces.

Prince Harry, founder of the Invictus Games, a sporting event for wounded service personnel, expressed hope that generations of future competitors would find help, hope, and happiness through the Armed Forces of Nigeria Invictus Centre.