The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are currently embarked on an unofficial “royal tour” in Nigeria, a visit that holds significant potential for healing the rift with the British Royal Family, according to insights from royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams.
Arriving in the West African country last Friday, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been actively engaging in various public activities, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games.
Their itinerary has included visits to schools, speeches on mental health, and attendance at a seated volleyball match, all aimed at promoting causes close to their hearts.
In an exclusive interview with the Mirror, Richard Fitzwilliams, a renowned royal commentator, highlighted a specific strategy the Sussexes could employ to help mend relations with the Royal Family.
He suggested that instead of continuing to criticize the institution, as seen in recent years, they could leverage their platform during their time in Nigeria to praise the Commonwealth, of which Nigeria is a member.
“The rift with the Royal Family is now obviously both deep and extremely public.
Their attacks on it in recent years are the main reason,” Fitzwilliams remarked. “If Harry and Meghan were to praise the Commonwealth while in Nigeria, it could help to heal relations.”
Fitzwilliams further emphasized the significance of the Commonwealth, stating, “It is, after all, Queen Elizabeth’s most significant legacy.”
He also alluded to recent events, including Prince Harry’s interview on Good Morning America, suggesting that such gestures could help rebuild trust within the family.
However, he acknowledged that repairing the damage may take an extended period, cautioning, “It will take a very, very long time to build up trust with the royal family. It is a sobering thought that it may never happen.”
As the Duke and Duchess near the conclusion of their visit to Nigeria, the impact of their actions on the perception of their brand within the royal context remains uncertain.
Fitzwilliams speculated that the trip would demonstrate the appeal of their brand, which has faced challenges in recent times but emphasized that rebuilding trust would require sustained effort.
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In conclusion, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s time in Nigeria presents a unique opportunity for them to play a constructive role in repairing relations with the Royal Family.
By leveraging their platform to highlight common values and commitments, they may take a step towards healing the fractures that have emerged in recent years.
However, the journey towards reconciliation is likely to be long and arduous, requiring patience, understanding, and a genuine commitment to rebuilding trust.
