How Prince Harry and Meghan's visit to Nigeria changed public perception

Last month’s visit by Prince Harry and Meghan to Nigeria to support the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games sparked global interest. It was the couple’s first trip to the country. Following their decision to step down as working royals, they have faced criticism from the public, especially from Brits, questioning their motives. Meghan's attire and their 16-car security convoy fuelled debate, with some doubting their intentions.

On Nigerian cyberspace, some speculated on whether they were sent as spies or to further colonial agendas.

Nigerians are vocal and question everything. This was demonstrated days later by journalist and author Zeinab Badawi at an event [unrelated to the Sussexes visit] at the Wheeler Institute in London to mark the release of her new book An African History of Africa, when she said: “Africans are more savvy now about being exploited”. 

Part of this process means that they might sometimes look a gift horse in the mouth to ensure that it isn't a Trojan horse.

Nevertheless, here are five reasons I think that the Susssexes visit to Nigeria was good PR for both parties:

1. Increased visibility

For the Sussexes, they had a lot of media coverage in Nigeria and across Africa. They also received coverage outlets including Vogue, Extra, Sky News, the BBC and CNN. Nigerians gave them a very rousing welcome with open arms, showcasing their festive and accepting nature. This increased visibility not only highlighted the royal couple but also shone a spotlight on Nigeria as a vibrant and welcoming destination.

2. Repositioning Nigeria as a place that is secure and suitable for tourism and business 

The last decade has been challenging for Nigeria with the activities of Boko Haram causing  insecurity. Security has been top on the nation’s agenda. This visit showed what progress has been made in the fight against insecurity. 

The seamless and secure nature of Harry and Meghan's visit to three Nigerian cities  showcased the country as a suitable place for tourism and business opportunities. Their presence, accompanied by a high level of security, demonstrated that Nigeria is a secure location for international guests. I believe that their visit has added to the repositioning of Nigeria on the global stage which is crucial for attracting more visitors and investors to the country.  

3. Cyber defence support from Nigerian netizens

Nigerians’ active online presence turned into a powerful defence team for the royal couple, especially Meghan, who faced criticism. Nigerians swiftly defended Meghan against online trolls, showcasing their support for the couple. 

This cyber defence mechanism highlighted the strong sense of community and protection that Nigerians extend to those that they welcome into their midst. They do this on the streets for fellow Nigerians who they think are being treated unfairly, so this is nothing new. Based on usual ‘Naija’ behaviour, this sense of protectiveness  towards Harry and Meghan could go on indefinitely.

4. Reparenting of Harry 

Many Africans have a soft spot for Harry. Few have spoken up about the need to keep family secrets but at the end of it all they see it just as a glitch that can be overcome. There is an African proverb which says, ‘You do not throw the baby with the bath water’ and I think this was proved during their weekend in Nigeria. 

There was unconditional acceptance when the governor of Kaduna presented Prince Harry with a painting of himself with his late mother, Princess Diana. He also had him clothed in one of the traditional Nigerian attires, showcasing the deep respect and appreciation that Nigerians hold for him. 

A similar reception by the Lagos state governor and the eastern chiefs who gave Meghan chieftaincy titles appeared to echo the same message. It was to my mind, a gentle reminder to Harry and to the world of who he is. Despite challenges faced by the royal family, Harry remains the son of King Charles and Diana and was treated as such.

5. A sense of autonomy and acceptance

Nigeria's warm reception of the Sussexes displayed the country's autonomy and acceptance as a nation. Despite external challenges faced by the couple, various entities in Nigeria, including the military, Nollywood, and government officials, embraced Harry and Meghan with open arms. This display of acceptance not only highlighted Nigeria's inclusive nature but also showcased the country's ability to forge independent relationships beyond external influences.

A lasting impact?

The Sussexes' visit to Nigeria was based on good relationships. Good PR is mainly about repository a brand to be visible and acceptable. It is also to change or correct public perception of a person, place or movement so as to improve on and  build relationships that give room for future collaborations and a better tomorrow. Did this visit achieve all of this? Well, it takes about three months to see the impact of a PR activity or campaign so perhaps. 

One thing that is sure however, is increased acceptability and a willingness to reconsider previously held assumptions about both parties. Already, Tatler magazine has tagged the visit as a success. Let's see what other parties have to say about it.

Amina Maikori is a journalist and international PR/communications specialist based in Abuja, Nigeria. She is also a mental health advocate and the author of The Demystification Of Stephen, a collection of short stories.