Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have hinted at future quasi-royal tours in Africa after expressing gratitude to Nigeria for an “unforgettable” visit. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex recently concluded a three-day trip to Nigeria, invited by the military, and have now returned to California.
In a statement on Sussex.com, they thanked event organizers, military officials, and the Nigerian community for their hospitality. Their visit to Nigeria, linked to Harry’s Invictus Games, included engagements in Abuja and Lagos from Friday to Sunday. The couple described their time in Nigeria as the “first of many memorable trips.”
However, their trip was overshadowed by news that their Archewell Foundation was listed as “delinquent” by a US charity regulator. Sources close to the couple claimed the issue arose because state officials did not process a check, causing delays in the foundation’s filings.
During their visit, Harry and Meghan attended a cultural reception in Lagos and a polo match fundraiser. The Duke vs Duchess polo match saw Meghan’s team winning 5-3, and the couple presented medals to the players. The event featured a vibrant parade of young polo enthusiasts and a procession of older children on horseback, celebrating Nigerian culture and sport.
The couple’s activities in Nigeria also aimed to promote mental health for soldiers and empower young people. They visited the Lagos State Government House and met military officials at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja. Additionally, they announced a partnership between the Archewell Foundation and the Geanco Foundation, which supports surgical missions, maternal health, and scholarships for young female victims of terrorism in Nigeria.
Despite the positive reception in Nigeria, the Archewell Foundation faced scrutiny back in the US. The foundation was deemed “delinquent” for not submitting required annual reports and renewal fees. Sussex sources claimed the delinquency notice was issued because a $200 check was not processed by the Attorney General’s office, despite being sent on time.
This explanation differed from an earlier claim that the check was lost in the mail. The Archewell Foundation’s tax filings for 2022 showed a significant drop in donations, with the foundation receiving just over $2 million in charitable donations compared to $13 million in 2021. The organization also reported a loss of more than $674,000 in 2022 due to operational costs.
During their stay in Nigeria, Harry and Meghan were warmly welcomed and participated in various events, including a women’s leadership event in Abuja where Meghan received flowers and engaged with local students. The couple’s visit was seen as a strategic move to bolster their philanthropic efforts and international presence.
As they continue to navigate their roles outside the British royal family, Harry and Meghan’s commitment to global causes remains evident. Their Nigerian tour highlights their focus on mental health, youth empowerment, and cultural exchange. Despite challenges with their foundation’s administrative issues, the Sussexes are determined to make a positive impact through their charitable initiatives.
The couple’s visit to Nigeria underscores their ongoing efforts to leverage their platform for meaningful change, and their future plans hint at continued engagement with Africa and other regions.
