Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, shared her feelings about discovering her Nigerian heritage at a women in leadership event in Abuja, Nigeria. The Duchess also spoke to a group of influential Nigerian women about how finding out she has Nigerian ancestry deeply moved her.

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It is a compliment to you because what they define as a Nigerian woman is brave, resilient, courageous, beautiful,”

Meghan Markle

In October 2022, the Duchess of Sussex revealed on her podcast that a DNA test showed she is “43% Nigerian.” Meghan’s public acknowledgment of her Nigerian roots has brought her closer to the people of Nigeria.

Meghan Receives Nigerian Names from Welcoming Crowd

Mo Abudu, the anchor and chief executive of EbonyLife media group, invited the audience to suggest a Nigerian name for Meghan. An enthusiastic crowd member shouted out “Ifeoma,” an Igbo name meaning ‘a treasured thing.’ Another suggestion was “Omowale,” from the Yoruba tribe, meaning ‘the child has come home.’

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Meghan and her husband, Prince Harry, are in Nigeria not only to explore her roots but also to promote mental health awareness for soldiers and young girls. This is part of their ongoing effort to tackle important issues affecting communities worldwide.

Highlighting Nigerian Women in Leadership

Meghan co-hosted the event with Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, a Nigerian economist and the head of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala made history as the first African woman to lead the World Trade Organization, overcoming significant challenges, including opposition from former President Trump during her appointment process. The event created a platform for discussing critical issues facing women around the world and sharing strategies for professional growth.

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“Never in a million years would I understand it as much as I do now. And what has been echoed so much in the past day is, ’Oh, we are not so surprised when we found out you are Nigerian,” Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, said.

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Also attending the event was Nike Davies-Okundaye, renowned for her art gallery and unique textile designs. Nike, a celebrated figure in Nigerian culture, has significantly contributed to the arts through her innovative use of traditional Yoruba adire techniques.

Photographs from Women in Leadership Event

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