Meghan Markle receives traditional ‘title’ as she declares Nigeria as her ‘home’

Meghan Markle was bestowed the traditional Yoruba name ‘Adetokunbo’ by the Olowo of Owo, the Yoruba King of Owo, during her Nigeria tour with Prince Harry last month

Last month, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex travelled to Nigeria

Last month, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex travelled to Nigeria (
Image: REX/Shutterstock)

Meghan Markle was given a new ‘title’ away from the Royal Family.

Last month, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex travelled to Nigeria, West Africa,. to support mental wellbeing initiatives for military personnel and inspire youth during the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Invictus Games.

As part of her visit alongside her husband Prince Harry, Meghan was given the traditional Yoruba title ‘Adetokunbo’ by the Olowo of Owo, the reigning Yoruba monarch.

Meghan Markle
Meghan says she treasures her new traditional title ( 
Image:
Anadolu via Getty Images)
In a letter following this honour, she shared that she would “treasure” the title translating as ‘the crown returns from over the sea’ expressing her special connection to Nigeria as her “home”. Meghan stated: “Thank you for your warm welcome to Nigeria. I am deeply humbled by your blessing of the traditional Yoruba name, Adetokunbo.”

“I treasure the name and appreciate your trust in me to carry it with grace and dignity. Our trip to Nigeria was significant for many reasons, not least because it provided us an opportunity to explore and understand my heritage, which extends to our children.”

“We look forward to returning home in due course.” Meghan’s sentiments left some Royal enthusiasts divided, while others showed outright support for Harry’s wife. One commentator on X praised: “It’s cool that Meghan’s embracing her Nigerian heritage. Representation matters, and it’s nice to see someone in the spotlight acknowledging.”

However, another dissented: “Embracing? Nah. Just attempting to be relevant.” A third individual chimed in: “Good to know she loves Nigeria her made up homeland from whence she did not come. If H is told to exit the USA they can return to Nigeria as promised, where she can bond with her letter writing family of prince and princess’s.” (sic)