Meghan Markle found herself at the periphery of attention during her visit to Lagos, Nigeria.
The Sussexes arrived in the vibrant Nigerian city on the morning of May 12th, following a two-day stay in Abuja. Megan graced the occasion wearing a traditional Nigerian skirt adorned with white and blue stripes, a gracious gift presented to her during a reception in Abuja. This maxi garment was crafted from the exquisite Asò-Ọkè, a handwoven textile originating from Southwest Nigeria.
The skirt was a generous gesture from Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the chairman of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission, who, during a reception at the Nigerian Defense Headquarters, bestowed upon the Sussexes his and hers traditional Asò outfits. Megan's attire choice was a deliberate nod to the warm reception she and Prince Harry received in Abuja, where she expressed gratitude for being welcomed to the country.
While Harry opted for a classic ensemble of sunglasses, a beige jacket, and a white shirt, Megan's attire resonated deeply with Nigerian tradition. However, despite the formal nature of their visit as official representatives, there was a minor breach of etiquette noted. It is widely understood that wearing sunglasses while greeting dignitaries can be perceived as impolite. As representatives on official business, maintaining eye contact is considered a minimal courtesy.
An incident unfolded where a host seemingly prioritized Prince Harry over Meghan, inviting him to take a seat while neglecting her presence. This subtle yet significant snub was captured on video, showcasing the host's apparent indifference towards Meghan. The incident left both Meghan and Harry visibly displeased, prompting speculation that protocol may have been enforced to prevent further breaches.
Meghan encountered another instance of disregard during an event in Lagos when she was not acknowledged, further amplifying feelings of being overlooked and sidelined. These incidents, though subtle, underscored a perceived lack of recognition and respect during their visit. The dynamics of their trip to Nigeria have raised eyebrows, with experts noting a mix of signals being sent.
Despite their transition away from official royal duties, their visit mirrored a traditional royal tour in many respects. From greeting crowds to inspecting troops and even participating in a volleyball match, the Sussexes' activities echoed those of traditional royal tours. However, this juxtaposition with their new roles outside the royal family has led to some confusion and critique, with observers noting that while it resembles a traditional royal tour, it lacks the full engagement with the media typically associated with such visits.
