The recent visit of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to Nigeria has sparked a flurry of conversation, particularly regarding the treatment Meghan received during their stay.
The couple arrived in Lagos on May 12, following a two-day engagement in Abuja.
Meghan made a cultural statement by donning a traditional Nigerian skirt, a gift from Abeka Dibiri-Orua, the chairman of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission.
This vibrant garment, woven from aso-oke fabric, featured striking white and blue stripes and was presented to them during a reception at the Nigerian Defence Headquarters.
Meghan, who proudly identifies as 43% Nigerian, expressed her gratitude to the audience in Abuja for their warm welcome.
Meanwhile, Harry opted for a more casual look, sporting sunglasses, a beige jacket, and a white shirt.
However, his choice of eyewear raised eyebrows, as it’s typically considered impolite to greet people while wearing sunglasses—especially when representing a royal figure.
The couple’s mission was to engage with local dignitaries, and such gestures of courtesy are expected.
A moment that caught the public’s attention was when a host seemingly sidelined Meghan during their arrival.
Instead of acknowledging both royals, the host directed his invitation solely toward Harry, asking him to take a seat while ignoring Meghan entirely.
This blatant snub did not go unnoticed; video footage captured the awkward moment, highlighting Meghan’s feelings of being overlooked.
The incident left both Harry and Meghan visibly displeased, raising questions about the dynamics of their reception.
This wasn’t an isolated incident.
Meghan experienced another instance of neglect during an event in Lagos, further emphasizing her perceived lack of recognition throughout the trip.
Such occurrences have led to speculation about the couple’s status and acceptance in Nigeria, a country where respect and acknowledgment are paramount.
Experts have weighed in on the Sussexes’ visit, suggesting that their approach mirrors traditional royal tours, despite their current status as non-working royals.
One commentator noted that the trip feels somewhat disjointed, as it appears to straddle the line between private and official engagements.
The couple has been seen mingling with crowds, inspecting troops, and even participating in a volleyball match—activities reminiscent of royal duties performed by family members like Prince William.
Newsweek’s royal correspondent, Jack Royston, pointed out the irony of the situation.
He remarked that the announcement of their visit was made in a manner typical of royal engagements, complete with a press conference backdrop declaring “Welcome Duke and Duchess of Sussex.”
This juxtaposition raises eyebrows, as they seem to be walking a fine line between maintaining royal traditions while also asserting their independence.
As the Sussexes navigate this complex landscape, their journey has become a topic of intrigue.
The royal couple’s mixed messages have prompted discussions about their future roles and how they are perceived both in the UK and abroad.
Despite being away from royal duties, their actions still resonate with the expectations of royal behavior.
While the couple aims to forge connections and represent important causes, the way they are received can significantly impact their efforts.
The incidents involving Meghan highlight the challenges they face in balancing their personal identities with the legacy of royal tradition.
As they continue their travels, observers will undoubtedly keep a close eye on how the Sussexes adapt to various cultural contexts and the receptions they receive.
