By Olakunle Agboola – The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan, arrived in Nigeria for a three-day visit, where they are expected to engage in philanthropic activities and foster goodwill.
The arrival on May 10, 2024, initiated a series of interactions targeted at advocating for social issues and encouraging cross-cultural dialogue.
During their visit to Nigeria, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, demonstrated an acknowledgment of her Nigerian heritage by immersing herself in local culture and engaging in different activities.
On the second day of the visit, Meghan mentioned her appreciation for the warm welcome she received and the importance of her new relationship with Nigeria.
Speaking at an event on women in leadership, co-hosted by Nigerian economist and World Trade Organisation Director General, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Meghan discussed her journey of self-discovery, highlighting the experience of learning about her Nigerian heritage through a genealogy test.
She referred to Nigeria as a significant part of her heritage. “It has been enlightening to learn more about my heritage,” stated Meghan, expressing her emotions at the revelation. As an African American, the experience of discovering her African and Nigerian heritage was profound for Meghan.
She spoke about the common emotions shared by many in similar situations and highlighted the positive characteristics associated with Nigerian women such as bravery, resilience, and beauty. Meghan’s revelation made public during a podcast in 2022, sparked excitement among the Nigerian audience.
The visit also included a poignant moment of solidarity as Prince Harry and Meghan witnessed a sitting volleyball game between Harry’s Invictus Games team and the Nigerian military. The event showcased soldiers recovering from injuries sustained in Nigeria’s ongoing conflict against extremist groups, highlighting the resilience and determination of the individual.
After the match at the Nigerian Armed Forces’ Mess in Abuja, Harry and Meghan were approached by players, their families, and a group of women who presented Meghan with a Nigerian fabric representing the ongoing friendship between the couple and the Nigerian people.
After the games, the couple departed from Abuja to Lagos on May 12, 2024, on an Air Peace charter flight. They were warmly welcomed at Murtala Muhammed Airport around 09:00hrs by military officials, government representatives, and Dr. Allen Onyema, Chairman of Air Peace, highlighting the importance of their visit.
A dance troupe performed at the Presidential Wing of the airport, resulting in a festive atmosphere as the Duke and Duchess were welcomed by Nigerian hospitality.
The royal couple participated in the Duke and Duchess Polo charity event during their visit to Lagos. The event was meticulously organized to highlight Nigerian hospitality and talent, with various activities planned to support charitable causes.
The event began with the arrival of respected guests, who were greeted with a red carpet and a sense of excitement and sophistication. The horse parade, featuring talented young riders and their impressive horses, was a standout moment of the festivities.
Amidst a gathering of people, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrived at the venue and were greeted by the President of the Lagos Polo Club and a committee. Their presence brought an air of elegance to the event, creating a noteworthy atmosphere. The event attracted a range of guests and provided a day of entertainment, socializing, and fundraising efforts.
The program proceeded with the awarding of medals to 18 children, highlighting their accomplishments and commitment. A silent auction attracted guests, providing chances to contribute to charitable causes amidst the excitement. Group photos on stage captured the memorable event, showcasing happiness and unity among participants.
During a brief meet and greet session, the Duke and Duchess interacted with attendees before moving on to the marquee for the trophy presentation. Accompanied by the President of the Polo Club, they acknowledged the successes of the day, appreciating the talent and fair play exhibited on the polo field.
The event proceeded with a VIP introduction, where distinguished guests such as the Chief of Defence Staff and representatives from Nigeria Unconquered and the Nola Foundation shared remarks. The speeches emphasized the significance of philanthropy and community involvement, showcasing the beneficial outcomes of charitable efforts.
Live entertainment was a prominent feature of the event, including a performance by Nigerian artist Chike of his song “Soldier” and cultural performers that enhanced the celebratory ambiance. Towards the end of the evening, the Duke and Duchess left the marquee, taking a moment to appreciate the elegant movements of the dancers.
Gift presentations and refreshments marked the end of the day, allowing guests to mingle and contemplate the event’s importance. With gratitude and admiration, attendees said goodbye to the Duke and Duchess as they left, carrying with them memories of generosity and goodwill.
Reactions in the UK: Admiration and Skepticism
Prince Harry and Meghan’s visit to Nigeria prompted a range of reactions from the British public and media. Many praised the couple for their commitment to humanitarian work, lauding their efforts to highlight important issues such as Mental health, which Prince Harry emphasized as a major issue in the world.
However, there were also voices of skepticism and criticism, with some questioning the timing and purpose of the visit. Critics asserted that Prince Harry and Meghan’s decision to embark on a high-profile trip to Nigeria raised concerns about their priorities and responsibilities as non-working royals.
Critics were concerned about the popularity of Harry and Meghan among the commonwealth nations, which were not well-matched with British media and the royal family. They were enraged about how they were treated with warm affection when they were not the focus of the crown. The UK media has been hysterical since Harry and Meghan visited Nigeria, ensuring that they take all headlines against them.
Despite these criticisms, Harry and Meghan Worldwide supporters have continued to defend their actions, expressing the positive impact of their visit to Nigeria. Also, they have continued to emphasize their genuine interest in engaging with people from different cultures and backgrounds, as well as their commitment to making the world better than they met it.
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