Meghan Markle and Prince Harry‘s recent journey to Nigeria has been far from smooth sailing as they made a return to the public eye after maintaining a low profile for an extended period.
Markle, in a vibrant show of cultural affinity, made a grand entrance an hour behind schedule at a women’s leadership summit.
During the event, she delivered a seemingly superficial speech, stating Nigeria as her country after discovering Nigerian heritage through a genealogy test.
Addressing the audience at the women’s gathering held at the World Trade Organization in Abuja, Meghan expressed gratitude and appreciation for the warm reception she and her husband received from the local community in Nigeria.
She even shared a light-hearted moment, recalling advice she received to wear more colorful attire to better connect with the people on a cultural level.
“Thank you very much for the warm welcome extended to my husband and me in this country,” remarked Harry’s wife.
However, reports indicate that Nigerian President Bola Tenubu opted to disregard the Harcourts’ visit, deeming it a non-priority amidst the urgent affairs in Abuja.
Social media is now abuzz with leaked information suggesting that Meghan and Harry will not be meeting with the president, a treatment often accorded to foreign celebrities when invited over.
Despite the Harcourts’ physical presence in Abuja and the president residing there, they were turned down for a meeting.
Not even the FCT minister, akin to the governor of Abuja, extended a greeting.
The lack of official reception is understandable given the more critical issues at hand in Abuja, with the Harcourts realizing the potential strain on relations with King Charles.
President Bola Tenubu had engaged with King Charles in Dubai during the COP28 climate summit last year, making the current situation intriguing.
The official narrative is downplaying the significance of the visit, denying any official capacity to the encounter.
However, discerning individuals are well aware of the underlying dynamics at play.
The choice seems to be between aligning with a king and his heir or supporting Harry and Meghan.
Throughout their three-day stay, Prince Harry and Meghan are focused on promoting the Invictus Games, marking its 10th anniversary.
While Nigeria is being considered as a future host for the games, no definitive decision has been reached.
Some observers view this West African visit as a strategic move to enhance the couple’s public image, with critics suggesting that Prince Harry, no longer representing the crown, has transitioned into a reality star and tell-all author.
Initially intended to be discreet and private, the couple’s visit has evolved into a full-fledged royal tour, involving activities typically associated with formal royal engagements and further embedding themselves in Commonwealth territories.
Nevertheless, Meghan’s fashion choices have come under scrutiny, drawing comparisons to that of a disheveled visitor at a bar.
The unfolding events have shed light on the complexities surrounding the Harcourts’ Nigerian visit, underscoring the delicate balance between celebrity status and diplomatic decorum.
