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
During the state visit by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, the royal family showcased moments of warmth and cultural exchange. A notable moment occurred as Kate complimented Camilla, while Charles extended a hand to the president during the welcome ceremony at Windsor.
A glitzy banquet with mindful touches
The state banquet at Windsor was a highlight of the visit, featuring a royal toast from the King. To accommodate Muslim guests fasting during Ramadan, the event included a prayer space and a dedicated Iftar area, reflecting thoughtful hospitality.
Among the many heartwarming scenes, the King made a lighthearted remark about jollof rice, a staple dish in West Africa. This moment was accompanied by a graceful curtsy from the Princess of Wales, underscoring the blend of tradition and modernity in the royal proceedings.
Private moments of camaraderie
Behind the formalities, William and Kate were seen exchanging quiet laughter during a private exchange, suggesting a shared sense of humor. Meanwhile, the Prince’s warm greeting with his stepmother added a personal touch to the diplomatic engagement.
Analysts noted a unique interaction between the King and President Tinubu, with the King offering his hand as they walked together. According to body language expert Inbaal Honigman, this gesture may have been influenced by the Nigerian President’s attentiveness and Charles’s cultural awareness.
“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 explained.
She added that such a moment is unusual in British culture, where men typically do not hold hands in public, but common in Nigerian traditions where close physical contact is a sign of camaraderie.
Words of resonance and recognition
The King’s speech featured a phrase likely to resonate deeply with Nigerian audiences: “Naija No Dey Carry Last” – a phrase meaning “Nigerians Never Come Last.” This expression highlights the nation’s resilience and determination, values the King praised during the visit.
Charles also highlighted Nigeria’s economic significance, noting that in January it became the UK’s largest African export market. He further commended the country’s diaspora, describing them 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.”
In a reflective tone, the King acknowledged the shared history between the UK and Nigeria, stating: “There are chapters in our shared history that I know have left some painful marks. But history is not merely a record of what was done to us – it is a lesson in how we go forward together to continue building a future rooted in growth and hope for all, and worthy of those who borne the pains of the past.”
Camilla’s elegant attire and public attention
Camilla was dressed in a pink wool crepe dress by Fiona Clare and a pink beret-shaped hat by Philip Treacy, complemented by the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Cartier flower clip brooches. Her appearance drew admiration from crowds gathered along Windsor’s streets.
A lip-reader suggested that Kate and Camilla shared a brief but meaningful exchange, with Kate reportedly opening with, “Good morning, how are you?” before expressing, “You look beautiful!” This subtle gesture underscored the personal bond between the royal couple.
As the visit concluded, the King’s remarks on jollof rice and the broader cultural and economic ties between the UK and Nigeria offered a glimpse into the spirit of the event, balancing formality with genuine connection.
