Nigerians across the country are eagerly anticipating the upcoming royal visit of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, following the revelation that Meghan has Nigerian ancestry. Social media platforms are buzzing with excitement as Nigerians prepare to welcome the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to their homeland next month.
Meghan Markle’s Nigerian heritage came to light in 2022 when she disclosed that she had discovered she is “43 percent Nigerian” through genealogy research. The news sparked joy and celebration among Nigerians, who consider Meghan as their “daughter” returning home.
The royal couple’s visit to Nigeria follows an invitation extended by the country’s chief of defense staff, following a meeting between Prince Harry and the official at the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf last September.
Expressing his excitement, Daniel Egwu from Enugu, Nigeria, said, “I’m thrilled about this news! Our beloved sister Meghan and our brother-in-law Harry are welcome to Nigeria!”
Another Nigerian, commenting on social media, wrote, “Harry and Meghan are coming to Nigeria in May! We cannot wait to welcome them! And our good sis is coming home for the first time. We have been waiting since she discovered she’s a daughter of the soil.”
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Prince Harry is scheduled to attend the 10th-anniversary ceremony of the Invictus Games at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London on May 8, while Meghan is not expected to join him in Britain. Subsequently, the royal couple will embark on their visit to Nigeria, where they plan to meet with service members, engage in cultural activities, and connect with local communities.
The Invictus Games, which were established for injured and sick military personnel and veterans, hold particular significance for Meghan and Harry. During the opening ceremony of the Dusseldorf Invictus Games last September, Prince Harry made reference to Meghan’s Nigerian heritage, signaling a deeper connection to the event.
Meghan’s warm embrace of a Nigerian competitor during the event, along with her subsequent meetings with team members and defense officials, further solidified her ties to Nigeria. The chief of defense staff affectionately bestowed upon her the nickname “Amira Ngozi Lolo,” symbolizing a warrior princess of royal stature, which Meghan gratefully accepted.
Derek Cobbinah, who coordinated Nigeria’s debut at the 2023 Invictus Games, revealed Meghan’s desire to organize a family trip to Nigeria, underscoring her eagerness to explore her Nigerian roots and strengthen her bond with the Nigerian people.
As Nigerians eagerly anticipate Meghan and Harry’s visit, the royal couple’s journey to Nigeria promises to be a momentous occasion filled with cultural exchange, celebration, and mutual appreciation.
