(Cover Image Source: GettyImages | Photo by Andrew Esiebo)
Prince Harry’s recent visit to Nigeria with his wife, Meghan Markle, has stirred mixed reactions online, as social media users debate the warmth and irony behind his address to Nigerian hosts as his “in-laws.” During their visit to Lagos State Government House, the couple was warmly received, with Meghan even affectionately dubbed Nigeria’s “new princess” following publicized revelations about her Nigerian ancestry.
In a significant honor, Meghan received the title “Ada Mazi” from the Ancient Arochukwu Kingdom, symbolizing her as a respected figure in the community. told by The Mirror. The royal couple’s tour culminated in an elaborate ceremony attended by prominent figures, including His Eminence Engr Eberechukwu Oji, Eze Aro of the Ancient Arochukwu Kingdom, Igwe Alfred Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, and the Great Olu of Warri Kingdom.
Prince Harry, expressing gratitude for the warm welcome, told the crowd, “I’ll skip the protocol because at this point we’re all family. Thank you for welcoming my wife and myself to Nigeria.” He humorously added that although this was their “first visit,” it would “certainly” not be their last. Reflecting on the ceremony’s significance, he said, “Thank you for the naming ceremony.
I don’t know how I got dragged into that, but to witness it next to my wife means a huge amount to both of us, especially her, so thank you for that.” Meghan, visibly moved, shared her sentiments with the crowd, saying, “I’m missing my babies,” while noting that it felt “very appropriate to be in the motherland and amongst family.”
However, Harry’s “in-laws” remark sparked lively debate across social media. Critics questioned the appropriateness of his term, considering his reportedly strained relations with Meghan’s biological family, including her father, Thomas Markle Sr., and half-siblings Samantha and Thomas Jr. One critic noted, “He is so desperate to find a family that he’s willing to call strangers his in-laws.
He has a father-in-law and siblings-in-law already.” Another comment read, “Harry, the traitor to his own family, hasn’t even met his actual father-in-law, who has begged to see him, Meghan, and his grandchildren. This is truly appalling.”
And this is why their haters can’t sleep at night 😭. What Prince Harry has with Meghan is special. They not only absolutely love each other , they actually like each other
“Prince Harry & Meghan Markle met with @Save_Children staff in the Nigerian capital Abuja last week. The Duke & Duchess of Sussex were invited to an event by the charity’s global ambassador, director & activist Misan Harriman.”
Despite the backlash, many online defended Harry’s affectionate gesture toward the Nigerian community, interpreting it as a lighthearted expression rather than a serious statement on his family ties. Supporters praised the couple’s genuine warmth and openness, highlighting their sincere gratitude and admiration for Nigerian culture. One admirer shared, “OMG. This is like a wedding. So sweet, so endearing, so genuine. A very happy and grateful couple. Archie and Lili will see this one day and know they are children of Nigeria too.”
Prince Harry thanking his Nigerian “in-laws” is the cutest thing you’ll hear today!😂 #HarryAndMeghanInNigeria While some critics viewed the address as misplaced, others saw it as a display of inclusion and connection, reflecting Harry and Meghan’s ongoing dedication to bridging cultures and celebrating heritage on their global journey.
