“I’m 45% Nigerian”: Duchess Meghan Embraces Nigerian Heritage Renamed ‘Ifeoma’ & ‘Omowale
In a heartwarming revelation that has captivated the hearts of many, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, has embraced her Nigerian lineage with open arms and a newfound title, ‘Ifeoma’. The Duchess’s journey of self-discovery led her to Nigeria, where she, alongside Prince Harry, is championing mental health initiatives for wounded soldiers and young girls.
During her visit, Meghan expressed how “humbling” it was to learn about her **43% Nigerian ancestry** through a genealogy test. Her announcement, made last October on her podcast, resonated deeply as she stood before an audience in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, and declared the nation as “my country.”
The Duchess’s engagement with the Nigerian community was not just a formality but a profound connection to her roots. The crowd, moved by her presence, bestowed upon her the name ‘Ifeoma’, a name from the Igbo tribe meaning ‘a treasured thing’. Other suggestions included ‘Omowale’ and ‘Edidiong’, each carrying significant cultural value and a sense of belonging.
Meghan’s participation in a leadership event co-hosted by the formidable Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, head of the World Trade Organization, highlighted the importance of mentorship and representation for young women. Okonjo-Iweala’s own trailblazing role as the first woman and African to lead the WTO was a testament to the strides being made, yet also a reminder of the progress still needed.
The Duchess’s call for mentorship was echoed by her own actions, as she urged the importance of “returning home” to inspire the next generation. Her day was further enriched by the Invictus Games, where she supported Prince Harry’s team and received a traditional Nigerian fabric as a symbol of the warm embrace from the Nigerian people.
This visit marks a significant chapter in Meghan’s life, as she not only acknowledges her heritage but also becomes a beacon of hope and inspiration, proving that one can indeed come home, no matter how far the journey.
