During a three-day visit to Nigeria, Prince Harry imparted a poignant message of resilience and mental well-being to students, underscoring the importance of acknowledging difficult days and advocating for open conversations about mental health.
Addressing attendees at a mental health summit in Abuja, the Duke of Sussex emphasized the normalcy of experiencing challenges, reassuring students that it’s acceptable to recognize moments of struggle. Amidst their visit, which coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games, a sporting event for injured servicemen and women, Prince Harry and Meghan engaged with children at Lightway Academy, a primary and secondary school in the capital.
The royal couple’s interaction with students encompassed a variety of topics, from their own family dynamics to the significance of mental health awareness. Meghan shared anecdotes about their children, while Prince Harry initiated a dialogue about the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraged students to embrace open discussions.
Their presence and candid dialogue resonated deeply with attendees, particularly Brian, one of the students who spoke openly about the importance of addressing mental health concerns and dispelling societal taboos. School Director Joyce Agbese praised Prince Harry’s advocacy, emphasizing the transformative impact of his message in a country where mental health discussions are often overlooked.
For students like Valeria Offia, Prince Harry’s visit held personal significance, offering validation and encouragement to confront their own mental health challenges. She commended the royal couple for their willingness to address such important issues openly.
Following the summit, Prince Harry’s itinerary includes a visit to a military rehabilitation center in Kaduna, where he will meet with injured service personnel. The couple will also visit Lagos, participating in various charitable and cultural events, including a training session for Nigeria: Unconquered and a Women in Leadership event co-hosted by Meghan and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization.
Prince Harry’s visit to Nigeria follows his recent participation in the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Invictus Games in London. Despite their overlapping engagements, the prince’s uncle, Earl Spencer, and the King, whose ongoing cancer treatment prevented a meeting, were unable to join the festivities at St. Paul’s Cathedral.