Understanding Why Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Accepted Gifts on Their Nigeria Tour Despite Royal Protocol

Why Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Can Keep Nigeria Tour Gifts

KOLA SULAIMON/AFP via Getty Images

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle recently made their first visit to Nigeria. During their three-day tour, they were given several gifts which they were able to keep. Harry, who is 39, and Meghan, who is 42, decided to step down from their positions as senior working royals in 2020. This means that they are not bound by the strict rules regarding receiving gifts that apply to other members of the royal family.

The official royal policy, last updated in 2003, states that members of the royal family should not accept gifts, hospitality, or services that could make them feel obligated to the giver.

The rules also mention that organizations and individuals should avoid giving extravagant gifts, especially during official overseas trips.

Harry and Meghan landed in Nigeria on Friday, May 10. While they were there, they received presents like jewelry, clothes, and books.

On Friday, Harry went to Kaduna alone and got two paintings as gifts. One was of him and Meghan on their wedding day in 2018, and the other was of him as a child with his late mother, Princess Diana.

Harry and Meghan had the chance to mark the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games during their trip. The games were created by Harry to pay tribute to injured military veterans. In Nigeria, Harry joined in a sitting volleyball match with disabled athletes who were all Nigerian army veterans. The couple also attended sports competitions inspired by the Invictus Games and raised awareness for mental health.

Meghan took part in a women's leadership event on Saturday, May 11. During her speech, she mentioned her Nigerian roots while addressing the attendees.

Meghan expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome she and her husband have received in the country. She also referred to it as "My country," showing her connection and appreciation.

In a recent interview with People on May 14, Meghan shared her excitement about learning more about her heritage. She mentioned her eagerness to pass down this knowledge to her children after discovering her African ancestry, which makes up 43 percent of her background.

"That's such a special thing for a mother to know she can do," she mentioned.

Harry, who has two kids - son Archie, 5, and daughter Lilibet, 2, with Meghan, also shared that they enjoy being hands-on when they travel together.

"These trips allow us to go out and concentrate on the things that are important to us," he explained.

Meghan added, "It's truly meaningful. Being able to connect with people is what makes it special."

The trip came shortly after Harry's solo visit to London to mark the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games at St. Paul’s Cathedral on May 8. While Harry attended the service, his father, King Charles III, was at a Buckingham Palace garden party just two miles away with other senior royals. Unfortunately, the father-son duo did not get the chance to meet during Harry's visit to the UK.

A spokesperson for Harry confirmed on May 7 that, despite inquiries and speculation, it would not be possible for the Duke to meet with his father during his time in the UK due to King Charles III's busy schedule.

Editor's P/S:

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's recent visit to Nigeria showcased their commitment to humanitarian efforts and their connection to their heritage. Despite stepping down from their senior royal roles, they continue to make meaningful gestures, such as participating in the Invictus Games and advocating for mental health awareness. Meghan's embrace of her Nigerian roots is particularly heartwarming, as she seeks to educate her children about their diverse ancestry.

The trip also highlighted the complexities of Harry's relationship with the royal family. While his absence from King Charles III's garden party due to scheduling conflicts is understandable, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing rift between father and son. Nonetheless, Harry and Meghan's unwavering dedication to their causes and their desire to foster connections around the world is a testament to their enduring impact and their continued relevance in the public sphere.