This impressive feat marks a new milestone for Nigeria in the prestigious beauty contest.
Nigeria’s Chidimma Adetshina made history at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City by becoming the first Nigerian to finish as the first runner-up.
This impressive feat marks a new milestone for Nigeria in the prestigious beauty contest.
The coveted crown went to Denmark’s Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, who outshone 124 contestants from around the globe. Theilvig succeeds Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, who held the title in 2023.
Chidimma’s journey celebrated elegance, culture, and style, showcasing Nigeria’s heritage and strength.
Her stunning national costume, “Nwanyi-Njiko,” designed by Abanobi Emmanuel Ifechukwu and Modela Couture, was a tribute to unity, strength, and heritage.
The top five finalists included representatives from Nigeria, Denmark, Thailand, Mexico, and Venezuela.
Chidimma Adetshina’s path to the Miss Universe stage was marked by adversity and resilience. Before claiming the Miss Universe Nigeria title, she initially competed in South Africa, where her journey was cut short due to a heated nationality dispute.
Born to a Nigerian father in South Africa, the 23-year-old faced intense backlash and xenophobic attacks when selected as a Miss South Africa finalist in July.
The controversy surrounding her Nigerian heritage sparked widespread debate and anti-foreigner sentiment.
Forced to withdraw from the competition for her family’s safety and well-being, Chidimma faced further challenges when the South African government launched an investigation into allegations that her mother had assumed the identity of a South African woman.
Despite these obstacles, Chidimma persevered and went on to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe pageant, ultimately securing the first runner-up position. Her remarkable journey serves as a testament to her strength and determination.
After a 20-year absence from Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina was unexpectedly invited to participate in the Miss Universe Nigeria contest. Organizers saw her as a symbol of Nigerian heritage, offering a chance to “represent your father’s native land on an international stage.”
Despite the lingering nationality controversy in South Africa, Chidimma expressed her love and gratitude for the country that had been her home. However, her experience had left emotional scars.
Chidimma took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message as she prepared for the Miss Universe finals. She thanked Nigerians for their overwhelming support and warm welcome, which helped heal the wounds of her South African ordeal.
