In a surprising turn of events, Chidimma Adetshina, a former Miss South Africa contestant, has been crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2024.
The pageant, held at the Eko Hotel Convention Centre in Victoria Island, saw Adetshina emerge victorious among 25 contestants vying for the title.
Adetshina’s journey to the crown has been anything but conventional. Just weeks before, she was forced to withdraw from the Miss South Africa 2024 competition due to controversy surrounding her citizenship.
The South African Home Affairs department had found prima facie evidence suggesting potential identity fraud committed by her parents when she was born, casting doubt on her eligibility to represent South Africa.
Adetshina’s fortunes took a dramatic turn when the organisers of Miss Universe Nigeria extended an invitation for her to participate in their pageant. As reported by eNCA, they saw it as an opportunity for her to “represent your father’s native land on an international stage.”
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The newly crowned Miss Universe Nigeria expressed her gratitude following a journey of adversity.
“This journey has been a tough journey for me and I am so proud of myself and I’m really grateful for the love and the support,” Adetshina told AFP after being crowned in Lagos. “This is something that I’ve always wanted, and I’m really glad that I have a second shot as well at achieving it,” she added.
The pageant wasn’t without its share of controversy. Some critics questioned the fairness of Adetshina’s participation, given her late entry into the competition.
Adetshina’s win represents more than just a beauty title.
“Lets break down the barriers that divide us. Let’s foster a continent where every African can move freely without prejudice, pursue their dreams, and contribute to the growth and prosperity of our great continent. This crown is not just a symbol of beauty, it is a call to action,” wrote Miss Universe Nigeria 2024.
This sentiment was echoed by the first runner-up to the pageant, Paula Ezendu, who told AFP, “We all need to stop with the xenophobia… with the tribalism. We’re all one family. We’re all human beings.”
Adetshina will represent Nigeria at the international Miss Universe competition in November. Mia le Roux, Miss South Africa, will be representing the nation at the international pageant in Mexico, too.
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