The President displayed remarkable astuteness in contrast to the individual who extended the invitation to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Upon their arrival in Abuja, Nigeria on May 10th, the royal couple embarked on a three-day visit. Their initial stop was Lightwe Academy, a prominent school situated in the capital city. Later in the afternoon, they toured the Defense Headquarters. However, President Abu and the FCT (Federal Capital Territory) Minister opted to disregard their visit.
Despite residing in Abuja, neither the President nor the FCT Minister granted them an audience. It appears their visit wasn't deemed a priority amidst the pressing matters in Abuja. This snub is poised to create awkwardness, especially considering King Charles' meeting with Nigerian President Bola Tanbu last year during the COP 28 Climate Summit in Dubai.
Tanbu lauded the British monarch as a fervent climate advocate, emphasizing the productive nature of their encounter. This meeting was pivotal in bolstering the partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom concerning environmental stewardship. The Nigerian President's rapport with King Charles exacerbates the tension surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan's visit to Nigeria.
Throughout their three-day stay, Prince Harry and Meghan aimed to advocate for the Invictus Games, commemorating its 10th anniversary. Nigeria is being deliberated as a potential host country for future editions of the games, although no definitive decision has been reached. Some commentators view their visit to West Africa as a public relations endeavor to enhance the couple's image. Critics contend that Prince Harry, no longer representing the crown, has transitioned into more of a reality star and tell-all author.
They perceive Harry and Meghan as striving to assert a significance greater than their actual stature. Initially anticipated to be discreet and private, their visit has morphed into what appears to be a royal tour, involving tasks typically associated with official royal visits, further embedding them into Commonwealth territory. However, Megan's choice of attire has drawn criticism, likening it to that of a disheveled cougar in a bar.
Responding to the visit, Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, clarified that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were visiting in a private capacity, dissociated from any official representation of the UK government. He affirmed that the British High Commission had no involvement in orchestrating or facilitating their visit. Refuting any notion of a snub, he underscored their non-royal status, suggesting that it wouldn't be surprising if the Palace had distanced itself from the visit. He humorously mentioned the absence of a welcome meal with dignitaries, adding a lighthearted tone to the discussion.
