Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, paid a heartfelt tribute to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, during a recent visit to Nigeria with her husband, Prince Harry. The Duchess wore a delicate diamond cross necklace that once belonged to Diana, adding a personal and emotional touch to their tour. This jewelry was a recent gift from Prince Harry, symbolizing the bond between his mother and wife.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex embarked on a three-day trip to Nigeria, which began in Abuja. Their visit included meetings with military families, local leaders, and community members. On May 11, Meghan attended a reception for military families at the Defense Headquarters Officers’ Mess, where she wore the iconic cross necklace paired with a white strapless linen dress by St. Agni. The event was particularly poignant as Meghan’s Nigerian heritage was acknowledged, and warm applause was received from the crowd.
“Princess Meghan is Nigerian!” exclaimed Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission, acknowledging Meghan’s 43% Nigerian ancestry, as revealed through a genealogy test. Meghan smiled and applauded, clearly moved by the warm reception.
Throughout the tour, Meghan’s fashion choices often reflected a connection to Princess Diana. On the first day of their visit, she wore a gold collar necklace reminiscent of one Diana wore during her 1990 tour of Nigeria. Many royal watchers and fashion enthusiasts noted this subtle nod to Diana’s legacy.
The trip to Nigeria was a sentimental journey and a significant milestone for the couple. It marked their first international tour since stepping back from their roles as senior members of the British royal family in 2020. Their busy itinerary included visiting Lightway Academy, where they interacted with schoolchildren and discussed the importance of mental health. Prince Harry emphasized the need to break the stigma around mental health issues, a cause he has passionately championed through the Invictus Games, an international sporting event he founded for wounded service members.
At the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, Meghan’s choice of jewelry continued to reflect her deep respect for Diana’s memory. She has previously worn other pieces from Diana’s collection, including butterfly earrings and an aquamarine ring. Prince Harry also incorporated two diamonds from Diana’s collection into Meghan’s engagement ring, ensuring his mother’s presence in their journey together.
The couple’s tour concluded in Lagos with a basketball clinic hosted by the charity Giants of Africa and a cultural reception at the State Governor’s House. Their activities throughout the trip highlighted the significant impact of the Invictus Games and showcased their ongoing commitment to charitable work, even as they navigate life outside the royal spotlight.
Meghan’s tribute to Princess Diana during their Nigerian tour honored the late princess’s legacy and strengthened the emotional connection between the past and present generations of the royal family. As they continue their philanthropic efforts, Harry and Meghan remain dedicated to making a positive difference in the world, carrying forward the values that Diana championed during her life.