Prince Harry and Meghan Markle set to ‘break royal protocol’ in Nigeria in major snub

A PR expert has suggested that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will turn their backs on “official protocol” on their visit to Nigeria this month.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in Africa

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are set to “break royal protocol” in Nigeria this month, a PR expert has suggested.

Following his solo appearance in the UK on May 8, Harry will be joined by Meghan to celebrate the Invictus Games in Nigeria.

The couple will visit the African country to take part in a host of cultural activities and talks about the Games – as well as meeting some service members and their families.

Speaking to the Mirror about their forthcoming visit, PR expert Mayah Riaz said: “Undoubtedly there will be all eyes on Harry and Meghan as they take their trip to Nigeria. However, this will be different to a traditional royal trip and they will want it to be so.”

Discussing notable differences for the visit, which has been deemed to be like an “unofficial royal tour”, she added: “There will be no press on the plane with them nor will they be greeted with welcoming ceremonies such as military honours or flag-raising ceremonies, which are often usual with royal visits.

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“Where it may be similar to a royal visit will be the press following the couple around on public appearances at events and ceremonies including seeing coverage of them interacting with the public.”

The expert added: “As Harry and Meghan have an active interest in philanthropy and highlight important causes, we may see them visit charities, schools or other institutions working towards social causes.”

Speaking about the couple themselves, Ms Riaz said that she believes their outfits could be different to what fans are typically used to seeing them wear.

Ms Riaz added: “Meghan won’t necessarily be dressing to any royal dress code. Her outfits will be carefully planned in advanced and fit to her style. We can expect the outfits she wears to sell out but there will be no official protocol for her to follow. Harry will be dressed down wearing a casual look and not be in a suit for the duration of his trip.”

Before flying to Nigeria, Harry will first be in the UK to attend a special ceremony to mark the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games. The ceremony, which Meghan won’t attend, will be held at St Paul’s Cathedral on May 8.