Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made a grand entrance into Nigeria this morning, commencing their much-anticipated faux royal tour following a smooth flight from London.
The duo’s journey began with Meghan flying in solo from Los Angeles to Heathrow yesterday, where she later reunited with her husband at the airport’s exclusive VIP Windsor suite.
Together, they boarded a British Airways overnight flight bound for Abuja, albeit facing a slight delay due to an unexpected illness affecting the scheduled pilot.
A swift replacement was arranged, ensuring their timely departure.
Seated comfortably in the first-class section of the Boeing 777, Harry and Meghan were discreetly separated from fellow passengers by a drawn curtain.
Their arrival in Nigeria just before 5 a.m. today was met with a warm reception as they disembarked the aircraft, exchanging smiles with the attentive cabin crew.
Officials from Nigeria extended a formal greeting at Abuja Namiazic International Airport, guiding the couple through a side entrance to a waiting blacked-out minibus for their onward journey.
Meghan showcased a chic ensemble comprising black trousers and a stylish brown jacket, while Harry sported a classic look with a black jacket, trousers, and an open-necked shirt.
Their luggage was dutifully carried by aides, accompanied by a vigilant security team that had previously been in Harry’s company during his recent London visit.
Reports suggest that the couple will be accommodated at the luxurious TransCorp Hilton in Abuja, where the opulent presidential suite commands a nightly rate of £600.
In a departure from their usual mode of travel via private jets, Harry and Meghan opted for a commercial flight to Nigeria, relinquishing the luxury of private air travel for a more inconspicuous journey behind the privacy of drawn curtains.
Despite this apparent shift in transportation, the couple’s ability to afford a retinue of aides to manage their belongings and ensure their security remains evident.
Regrettably, their recent actions casting aspersions on the royal family have seemingly cost them the privileges and prestige that come with royal status.
During their stay in Nigeria, Harry and Meghan are set to partake in various engagements, including attending a volleyball match and visiting military hospitals and charitable organizations in both Abuja and Lagos.
Their detailed itinerary, disclosed during a press briefing held by the Defence HQ on May 8, outlines planned meetings with injured armed forces personnel and their families.
The initial day of their visit will feature a low-key reception, akin to a casual morning gathering over coffee.
Invited by General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, following their encounter at the Invictus Games in Dorf, Germany, last September, Harry and Meghan will also visit the Wolite Academy and meet with Nigeria’s security chief during their time in the country.
Additionally, a visit to the Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna Estate is scheduled, providing an opportunity to interact with recovering soldiers and offer support to those wounded in service.
An exhibition volleyball match between the Chief of Defence Staff team and the Dukes team will precede a reception where the royal couple will engage with military families and service members.
Their packed schedule includes a meeting with Governor Babish Sanoolo of Lega State on May 12, culminating in attendance at a basketball exhibition match at a local school.
The tour will draw to a close with a final reception on Monday, marking the end of Harry and Meghan’s eventful visit to Nigeria.