Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have wrapped up their Nigerian tour, marked by a series of engagements and the presence of their loyal staff and security detail.
The Sussexes returned to the United States yesterday after an action-packed three days in Nigeria.
Their visit included charitable engagements, meetings with influential personalities, and several speeches.
Amid security concerns, they took no chances, bringing along their own security team following advisories about Nigeria.
Lets delve into the behind-the-scenes details of their visit.
16-car convoy
Meghan and Harry were spotted at a hotel luncheon with prominent Nigerian figures last Sunday. Post-event, the couple made a swift exit, clasping hands, reports the Mirror.
“Go, go, go,” shouted an aide to one of the drivers, as reported by the Daily Mail, signalling the departure of Meghan and Harry. They were part of a 16-vehicle motorcade, each car’s windows tinted for privacy.
Accompanied by aides
In Nigeria, Meghan and Harry were accompanied by a smaller entourage than usual, but they ensured their trusted aides were with them throughout the journey.
As the couple embarked for Lagos, they were accompanied by an entourage of female aides. Dressed casually in shift dresses and Adidas trainers, Harry and Meghan’s staff maintained a discreet distance, following the royals rather than walking alongside them.
Security detail
During the final day of their tour on Sunday, upon touchdown in Lagos, Harry and Meghan were joined by armed police officers and secret service agents, with distinctive earpieces denoting their roles. Special forces soldiers also formed part of their additional security detail.
Given the heightened concerns about safety in Nigeria, the pair didn’t take any chances, bringing along their own security team.
The US State Department has issued Nigeria with a Level 3 advisory, the second highest risk assessment due to prevailing crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping threats along with the presence of armed gangs.
Furthermore, the US State Department cautioned citizens to “reconsider travel” to Nigeria. Observers got an on-ground view of Harry and Meghan’s security detail in action during the Duke’s visit to a hospital in Kaduna on Saturday.
Harry was reportedly accompanied by a four-strong security team during his visit to a hospital where he met with injured Nigerian soldiers.
The UK Government’s site also states: “Banditry and violent attacks are frequent and there is a high threat of kidnap. Incidents of intercommunal violence occur and trains are vulnerable to attack. If you’re travelling in the north-west against FCDO advice, be extremely cautious and monitor local media.”
Outfit changes
In terms of fashion, Meghan dazzled on the Nigerian tour with an array of vibrant outfits. At an event discussing women in leadership, she humorously admitted to adapting her style to “fit in”.
She shared: “It has been a whirlwind 24 hours since we arrived, and I very quickly got the memo that I need to wear more colour so I can fit in with all of you in your incredible fashion.”
The Duchess of Sussex certainly lived up to expectations. For the Women In Leadership panel event, Meghan donned a red maxi dress, ethically designed by Nigerian designer Orire and priced under £230.
On their final day in Nigeria, Meghan had three outfit changes. Fans particularly adored her canary yellow ankle-length dress, previously worn in 2021 when she announced her pregnancy with Princess Lilibet and for Prince Archie’s first birthday party.