
Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina, representing Taraba State, has been crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2024. The 23-year-old, born in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a Mozambican mother, emerged victorious despite facing significant challenges leading up to the competition.
Adetshina's journey to the crown was not without its hurdles. Initially a contestant in this year's Miss South Africa pageant, she withdrew after becoming the target of xenophobic backlash and accusations of fraud by the South African Home Office.
"For the safety of my family," she explained, she had to pull out of the contest. However, the Miss Universe Nigeria organizers extended an invitation to her, which she accepted with grace and determination.
The Miss Universe Nigeria competition, held in Lagos, was a spectacle of glitz and glamour. After showcasing their elegance in evening gowns, the top five finalists were announced: Miss Taraba Chidimma Adetshina, Miss Anambra Paula Ezendu, Miss Edo Edeifo Brittany, Miss Ondo Ayegbidun Peace Olamide and Miss Rivers Nyekachi Douglas. Ultimately, Adetshina clinched the title, with Miss Anambra named the first runner-up and Miss Ondo awarded the title of Miss Lush.
"This crown is not just for beauty; it's a call for unity," Adetshina stated emotionally after being crowned. Her victory is seen as a symbol of resilience and a testament to overcoming adversity. She will now go on to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe contest.
Despite a last-minute surge in public votes for Miss Kwara, Ufa Dania, who is noted as the first plus-sized contestant in the pageant, Adetshina's poise and determination secured her the win. Dania herself expressed support for Adetshina, having faced online harassment as well.
The Miss Universe Nigeria founder, Guy Murray-Bruce, emphasized the importance of unity in his remarks: "There is enough racism in the world. We shouldn't be fighting with one another. I want Africa, the black continent, to be united."
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