Duke and Duchess to Nigeria

Grand Welcome in Nigeria for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex began a 3-day private trip to Nigeria, greeted with grandeur similar to royal tours. Upon arriving in Abuja, the Nigerian capital, they received a red-carpet welcome and a performance by traditional dancers (to receive the Duke and Duchess to Nigeria). The couple inaugurated a mental health summit at Lightway Academy and announced a collaboration between their Archewell Foundation and the GEANCO Foundation to provide students with school essentials and menstrual products.

At the invitation of Nigeria’s highest-ranking military official, Christopher Musa, Meghan expressed her gratitude in the guest book at the Nigerian Defence Headquarters. Although the visit was private, their schedule mirrored the formality of official royal tours prior to their departure from senior royal duties in 2020. The warm hospitality from the Nigerian people was evident, with gifts and gestures of kindness, including a heartfelt portrait of a young Harry with his mother.

Nigeria’s Significance and Security

The visit held great importance for both Nigeria and the Sussexes. It gave Nigeria the chance to display its ability to host esteemed visitors and respond to critics who question the country’s safety. While Nigeria faces security challenges in certain regions due to terrorist activities, most areas, including those visited by the couple, are considered safe.

A Return to Africa with Personal Connections

This trip marked Harry and Meghan’s first significant journey to Africa since stepping back from official royal duties. It allowed them to connect with the people of Nigeria, a task they fulfilled with charm and grace.

For Meghan, the visit held personal significance as she explored her Nigerian heritage. After discovering through a genealogy test that she is 43% Nigerian, Meghan co-hosted a women’s leadership event with Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation. The event brought together 50 influential women from various sectors of Nigerian society.

During a panel moderated by Nigerian media mogul Mo Abudu, Meghan shared how discovering her Nigerian roots has impacted her sense of identity. She expressed her excitement about learning more about her background and the importance of her heritage.

Meghan’s Deep Connection with Nigeria

Meghan effortlessly engaged with attendees, took selfies, and had meaningful conversations. At an event in Lagos, where prominent figures from Nigerian society welcomed the couple, Meghan was deeply moved when three traditional rulers bestowed royal titles upon her.

The Obi of Onitsha honored her with the title “Ada Mazi,” meaning “daughter of the Igbo ancestral palace,” while the Oluwo of Iwoland gave her the title “Adetokunbo,” meaning “royalty from across the seas.”

Harry’s Tribute to His Mother and Dedication to Veterans

Throughout the visit, the couple focused on key interests, including sports rehabilitation, mental health, and women’s empowerment. Harry, echoing his late mother Princess Diana’s compassion, visited wounded soldiers at a military hospital in Kaduna, 150 miles from Abuja.

He met with Governor Senator Uba Sani, who praised Harry for his courage and service, and sent regards to the Duchess of Sussex. Harry then visited six wards at the Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, where he spoke with young soldiers recovering from various injuries. A heartfelt moment was captured when Harry comforted Corporal Yusef, a 23-year-old soldier wounded in the knee, encouraging him to prepare for the Invictus Games.

Cultural Connections and Fond Farewells

During their stay, the couple enjoyed cultural experiences, including a dance performance and a polo match at the Lagos Polo Club, a nod to Harry’s dedication to the sport and its charitable causes. As they departed Nigeria, Meghan expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome, stating, “I can’t wait to come back!”