Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, recently reunited in London. Their get-together remained under the radar until they departed for Nigeria.
The secretive meet-up of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle occurred at Heathrow Airport's VIP Windsor Suite, where Meghan landed solo from Los Angeles before joining Harry, who had been in the UK since Tuesday.
However, the couple's brief rendezvous was so discreet that only Harry was pictured at the airport when flying out of the UK. This has sparked a flurry of reactions across social media platforms, with the online community chiming in with diverse opinions.
One user sarcastically remarked, "Pathetic and strategic." Another echoed, "Acting like they are royalty." A tweet also read, "Meghan met up with Harry at the Heathrow airport lmaoo [sic] I love this."
Another reaction on Twitter noted, "#HarryandMeghaninNigeria and Harry did again. The famous 'touch and go' like the last time he was in the UK. Imagine the tabloids finding out Meghan was waiting for him on the airport in the UK."
Contrastingly, others expressed support, with comments like "Good on them they deserve happiness." Questions about their children's whereabouts during this trip also sparked curiosity and concern Comments read, "Where are their children, did they get to go with them?" and "Nothing meaningful about them two oh and where are their so called children are they real."
The purpose of Harry's earlier arrival in London was to mark the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games, a cause close to his heart. During his stay, he attended several events related to the competition. This included a thanksgiving service. During his visit, Harry expressed how "great" it was to be back in the UK, a sentiment that resonated with many of his supporters.
However, news outlets reported that Prince Harry had no plans to visit the King of England) during his stay. "In response to the many inquiries and continued speculation on whether or not The Duke will meet with his father while in the U.K. this week, it unfortunately will not be possible due to His Majesty's full program," a spokesperson for Harry announced).
The statement further explained), "The Duke of course is understanding of his father's diary of commitments and various other priorities and hopes to see him soon." According to a report, King Charles III has resumed a packed schedule as he recently returned to his public royal duties.
Meanwhile, royal experts suggested that Meghan's decision to skip the London Invictus Games festivities is calculated. Her preference for visiting Nigeria, where she anticipates a more welcoming public reception, is a move to foster positive PR rather than risking potential public disapproval in the UK.
The decision underscores a tactical approach to her public persona and engagements, especially considering the critical voices she has faced from some British royalists who have not fully embraced her.
During their last joint appearance at St. Paul's Cathedral for the late Queen's Platinum Jubilee, the couple encountered a polarized reception. While some cheered for them, others also booed them.
The memory of being booed, despite the presence of cheers, has evidently left a lasting impression on Meghan, influencing her current travel decisions and public engagements.
Public relations guru Lynn Carratt spoke about the nuances of this decision. She noted that Meghan's presence in the UK could also potentially overshadow the Invictus Games. Carratt pointed out that allowing Harry to attend the London events alone ensures that the focus remains on the Games and his involvement without the additional media circus that might accompany Meghan's presence.
Harry and Meghan are particularly focused on promoting the Invictus Games and engaging with local military communities in Nigeria. The couple's arrival in the country is part of a meticulously planned visit that underscores their ongoing commitment to global humanitarian and advocacy work.
Their journey began with an overnight British Airways flight to Abuja. Unfortunately, they experienced a slight delay due to an unforeseen change in pilots. Despite the setback, the couple landed at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where Nigerian officials promptly greeted them.
To ensure their privacy and security, other travelers were held back. Harry and Meghan were swiftly escorted through a side door onto the tarmac and into a waiting, blacked-out minibus.
They are believed to be staying at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja. This upscale hotel is renowned for its service and facilities including a restaurant, pool, and spa. It caters primarily to expatriates and diplomats and is strategically located near the Nigerian Defence Headquarters.
Their first official engagement was scheduled for noon at the Defence Headquarters, where they met with General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff.
Following their meeting, the Sussexes traveled to Kaduna to visit a military hospital, where they met with wounded soldiers. This visit aligns with the Invictus Games’ ethos of supporting injured service members and veterans, emphasizing rehabilitation through sports.
The couple's itinerary also included a visit to a local school, a cultural reception to honor military families, and a polo fundraiser for Nigeria: Unconquered.
Adding a personal dimension to their visit, Meghan expressed enthusiasm about exploring her Nigerian ancestry, a revelation she shared in her Spotify podcast Archetypes in 2022. Identifying as 43 percent Nigerian,' Meghan’s journey also symbolizes a personal exploration of identity and heritage.
