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Royal Visit to Nigeria Sparks Controversy
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's visit to Abuja, Nigeria, on May 10 stirred up a whirlwind of reactions as they embarked on a three-day tour.
Their first stop was at Lightway Academy, a local school in the bustling capital city.
Subsequently, the royal couple proceeded to explore the defense headquarters, seeking to engage with various facets of Nigerian society.
However, the notable absence of an audience with President Abu and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister raised eyebrows, indicating a deliberate snub towards the visiting dignitaries.
The decision by both the president and the FCT minister to forego meeting Prince Harry and Meghan suggests that their presence was not deemed a top priority amidst the myriad pressing issues faced by the city of Abuja.
This unexpected turn of events is anticipated to create an air of discomfort, particularly in light of the existing rapport between Nigerian President Bola Tenubu and King Charles.
The previous encounter between Tenubu and the British monarch in Dubai during the COP28 climate summit was characterized by mutual admiration and a shared commitment to environmental causes, underscoring the significance of diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Against this backdrop, Prince Harry and Meghan's visit to Nigeria carries added weight as they aim to champion the Invictus Games, marking its 10th anniversary.
With Nigeria being considered a potential future host for the prestigious event, speculations abound regarding the underlying motives behind the royal couple's West African sojourn.
While some view it as a strategic public relations move to bolster their public image, critics have voiced skepticism, portraying Prince Harry as transitioning from a royal figure to a reality television personality and author seeking the limelight.
Initially intended as a low-key excursion, Prince Harry and Meghan's visit has progressively taken on the semblance of a formal royal tour, complete with engagements typical of official visits within the Commonwealth realm.
However, critiques have emerged regarding Meghan's sartorial choices, drawing comparisons to an ill-prepared visitor in a social setting.
Responding to the unfolding narrative, Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, clarified that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were undertaking the trip in a private capacity, dissociating their agenda from any official representation of the UK government.
Amidst swirling speculations and contrasting perceptions surrounding the royal visit, opinions diverge on the nature of the reception accorded to Prince Harry and Meghan in Nigeria.
