Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s recent visit to Nigeria has been nothing short of inspiring. The royal couple embarked on a three-day trip, starting with a visit to Lightway Academy in Abuja, where they engaged with students and delivered empowering messages at a mental health summit.
The visit, part of a series of events linked to the Invictus Games, a sporting event for injured servicemen and women founded by Prince Harry, aimed to raise awareness about mental health and reduce the stigma associated with it.
At the mental health summit, Prince Harry encouraged students to openly discuss their mental health, emphasizing that it’s okay to have a bad day and that talking about mental health can help overcome challenges. Meghan Markle also shared her experiences, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding.
The couple’s interaction with the students was heartfelt and genuine. They joined the children in singing and dancing, showing a personal side by mentioning their own children, Archie and Lilibet.
The impact of their visit was evident in the reactions of the students. One student, Brian, spoke about the importance of addressing mental health issues, emphasizing that bottling up emotions can lead to serious consequences. Another student, Valeria Offia, shared her personal struggles with mental health and expressed gratitude for the royal couple’s efforts to break the stigma surrounding mental health.
The visit was not just about raising awareness; it was also about taking action. Prince Harry and Meghan visited a military rehabilitation center in Kaduna, where they met injured service personnel. Their commitment to supporting mental health initiatives and their interaction with the community left a lasting impression.