During their visit to Nigeria, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle engaged in discussions about mental health, the Invictus Games, and their forthcoming Netflix polo series. Learn more about their activities during the trip!
What was the main focus of the Sussexes’ visit to Nigeria?
During their trip to the West African nation, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were warmly received by enthusiastic crowds. Prince Harry engaged in a volleyball match, while Meghan delivered speeches at various events. Additionally, during a school visit, Prince Harry addressed the global stigma surrounding mental health.
Former BBC royal correspondent Michael Cole highlighted the significance of the visit in terms of the couple’s partnership with Netflix. According to Cole, the trip provided valuable content for Netflix’s offerings, including podcasts and shows, contributing to the couple’s $100 million contract with the streaming platform. He emphasized the importance of engaging with people firsthand rather than remaining secluded in their California residence.
The invitation to Nigeria came from General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, who met Prince Harry at the Invictus Games in Düsseldorf, Germany, last September. Meghan was also invited following her discovery of her Nigerian heritage.
Since signing their deal with Netflix in 2020, the Sussexes have been involved in producing a six-part documentary series that offers insights into the lives of members of the Royal Family.
A new, yet unscripted, Netflix series in the making
In the afternoon, the couple graced a reception honoring Nigeria: Unconquered, a charitable organization dedicated to aiding wounded veterans from Nigeria on their journey to participate in the Invictus Games. Meghan donned a dress designed by Johanna Ortiz and sported Heidi Merrick sunglasses, while Harry opted for a dark suit. They enjoyed a riveting polo match, engaging in a friendly Duke vs. Duchess competition, with the duchess’s team emerging victorious with a score of 5-3.
Following in the footsteps of his father, King Charles III, Harry is known for his passion for polo. On April 15, he teamed up with his friend Nacho Figueras for a match in support of Sentebale, his HIV/AIDS charity. Ahead of the match, Deadline reported Harry’s collaboration with Miloš Balać from Welcome to Wrexham on an unscripted Netflix series centered around polo.
The invitation for Meghan and Harry’s visit to Nigeria came from Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, the country’s defense minister, whom they first encountered at last fall’s Invictus Games in Düsseldorf. Nigeria made its debut at the games by sending teams of wounded service members. The ministry later revealed Badaru’s aspiration for Nigeria to host the games in the future.
While their tour included participation in a summit focusing on student mental health, Meghan and Harry primarily dedicated their attention to promoting the Invictus Games and supporting wounded veterans. During the visit, Harry visited the Nigerian Army Reference Hospital Kaduna, where he toured six wards and personally greeted approximately 50 wounded soldiers.