Somewhat thoughtless on their part. They ought to have realised that Nigel's DD's would have put something special there for their Dad.
It might be an idea to take a step back from them for a little while. But maybe, to prevent them feeling like this is a battle of some sort, make an advance arrangement for them to do something with the girls, but I mean way in advance ie Christmas and beyond. Leave it to them to arrange contact in between times. At least then you have 'done your bit'.
This sucks though YG. You dont need this.