Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle will visit Nigeria in May following the nation’s debut appearance at Harry’s 2023 Invictus Games which was held in Düsseldorf, Germany.
The Invictus Games is an international multi-sport event first held in 2014, for wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women, both serving and veterans. It is organised by the Invictus Games Foundation founded by Harry.
Tukur Gusau, director of defence information, made the disclosure in a statement issued on Sunday. He said: “The visit is to consolidate Nigeria’s stronghold at the game and the possibility of hosting the event in later years.”
The report recalled how the royal British prince and his wife “spent time with the Nigerian team, whom Harry said his wife was supporting during his opening speech.”
Harry joked that the event may be more competitive this year since his wife had discovered that she’s of Nigerian descent, “Now, I’m not saying we play favourites in our home, but since my wife discovered she’s of Nigerian descent, it’s likely to get a little bit more competitive this year,” he said.
Last year, Nigeria participated in the games for the first time. The country was the only African representative at the event, swooping gold and bronze medals along the way.
During their stay in the country, they will be meeting with Service members and will be hosted to arrays of cultural activities,” the statement said.
“The visit is to consolidate Nigeria’s strong hold at the game and the possibility of hosting the event years later.”
Gusau said Mohammed Baduru, minister of defence, who was at the event in Germany last year, is keen on playing host should Nigeria get the nod.
The trip will also be a first for Meghan, who previously revealed she has 43% Nigerian ancestry. She was given the name “Amira Ngozi Lolo,” which holds royal meaning. “Amira” is the name of a legendary warrior princess, while “Ngozi” means “blessed” and “Lolo” means “royal wife.”