The Defence Headquarters has commenced the construction of the Invictus Center for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, a state-of-the-art rehabilitation facility designed to provide medical and psychological care for wounded, injured, and sick military personnel.

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 physical and psychological wounds in the line of duty.

He said, “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.

“It is therefore essential for our societies to recognise and honour their sacrifices to provide adequate support for their physical and mental well-being and ensure its veterans are cared for after service.

“The Invictus Center is thus designed to offer innovative rehabilitation programs for experts in military medicine and psychology.”

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, described the project as the first of its kind in Africa, emphasizing its role in supporting the rehabilitation and psychological recovery of military personnel, stating that it would help in supporting the rehabilitation and psychological recovery of military personnel.

He said, “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.

“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 by David Wiseman, praised the initiative as a major milestone for recovery and rehabilitation in Nigeria’s armed forces

The Duke, who founded the Invictus Games, a sporting event for wounded service personnel, expressed hope that generations of future competitors for future games will gain help, hope and happiness as they pass through the Armed Forces of Nigeria Invictus Centre.