First Lady Tinubu Clarifies
Nigeria's First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has shown support for Meghan Markle following online criticism suggesting she disparaged the Duchess' fashion choices during her visit to Nigeria earlier this month.
First Lady Tinubu made headlines with a speech addressing issues facing Nigeria's youth, criticizing the emulation of American film stars and referencing "nakedness" in fashion. Some interpreted this as a critique of Meghan Markle. The comments went viral, prompting the First Lady’s office to clarify that she meant Meghan appreciates African culture and did not criticize her fashion choices.
Meghan and Prince Harry were well-received during their three-day visit to Nigeria from May 10 to 12. The couple was officially invited by General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defense Staff. Many events during their stay were related to Harry's Invictus Games, which Nigeria participated in for the first time in 2023.
Meghan revealed on her Archetypes podcast that she discovered she is 43 percent Nigerian through a genealogy test and thanked Nigerians for "welcoming me home."
The visit raised eyebrows in Britain as it mirrored official tours by royal family members. After stepping down from royal duties in 2020, Harry and Meghan no longer undertake such tours on behalf of the monarchy. The visit was made in a private capacity as philanthropists.
Meghan’s wardrobe during the visit received praise from fashion critics. However, some online critics felt that her bare-shouldered outfits were incongruous with the modest dress codes observed by a significant portion of Nigeria’s population.
The visit faced controversy when it was revealed that the couple used the commercial airline Air Peace for internal travel. Air Peace's chief executive, Allen Onyema, is currently wanted in the U.S. on a fraud indictment from 2019. It is unclear if Harry and Meghan were aware of this, but commentators noted this as a mistake they cannot afford to repeat.
Despite the initial controversy, Nigeria's First Lady Oluremi Tinubu clarified her support for Meghan Markle, ensuring a positive narrative. Meghan and Harry's visit, marked by significant events and personal connections, was largely well-received despite minor controversies.
