Kate’s secret message to Camilla, Charles’ kind gesture and ‘diplomatic’ jokes about jollof rice: All the moments you missed from the first Nigerian state visit in 37 years
Kate’s secret message to Camilla, Charles’ kind gesture and ‘diplomatic’ jokes about jollof rice: All the moments you missed from the first Nigerian state visit in 37 years
The royal family’s recent engagement with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his spouse, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, highlighted several memorable exchanges. Notably, Kate was seen offering praise to Camilla, while Charles demonstrated a thoughtful act by clasping hands with the visiting leader during their arrival at Windsor.
A Glimpse into the State Banquet
At the state banquet, the King led the formal welcome, delivering a toast that accounted for Muslim guests fasting during Ramadan. This included the provision of a dedicated prayer area and an Iftar space, reflecting the monarchy’s attention to cultural nuances.
Unusual Moments and Cultural Insights
Royal commentators noted a distinctive interaction as the King extended his hand to Tinubu during their stroll through Windsor. Body language expert Inbaal Honigman of HELLO! suggested the gesture might have been influenced by the Nigerian leader’s mindfulness and Charles’s cultural awareness, noting that such hand-holding is customary in Nigerian traditions.
“The King glances downwards, as if steadying himself as he walks. It appears likely that perhaps the King found the gravel a little tricky to walk over, and President Tinubu offered his hand to help him across,” Honigman shared.
The Prince and Duchess of Cambridge were also captured in a lighthearted moment, seemingly unable to suppress their laughter as they exchanged a private joke. Additionally, William received a warm greeting from his stepmother, Camilla, who showcased a refined elegance in a pink wool crepe dress by Fiona Clare and a pink beret by Philip Treacy, complemented by the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Cartier flower clip.
Resonant Moments in the Speech
During his address, the King highlighted a phrase that resonated deeply with Nigerians: “Naija No Dey Carry Last” — a saying that underscores the country’s enduring spirit and pursuit of excellence. He concluded his remarks with this line, met with enthusiastic applause.
“Naija No Dey Carry Last” — Nigerians Never Come Last.
Charles also noted Nigeria’s significance as the UK’s largest African export market since January, praising the substantial Nigerian diaspora as a “living bridge of over half a million people who connect our nations… and help make our cultures richer, our shared security stronger and our economies more prosperous.”
Levity and Shared Heritage
Amidst the formal proceedings, the King injected a moment of humor by referencing jollof rice, a cherished Nigerian dish. Popular in West Africa, this dish is prepared with long-grain rice, tomatoes, chillis, spices, and often includes meat or vegetables, though each region boasts its own unique variation.
Kate’s affection for Camilla was evident as they engaged in close conversation during the welcome ceremony, with a lip-reader suggesting she began with, “Good morning, how are you?” followed by, “you look beautiful!”
