Emerging from a small Nigerian town, this beauty queen’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Raised in a supportive but humble family, she dreamed of making a global impact. Despite financial struggles, she pursued her passion for modeling, balancing part-time jobs with charity work focused on girls’ education. Born to a Nigerian father in South Africa, 23-year-old Chidimma Adetshina withdrew from the country’s competition “for the safety and wellbeing of my family and I” after a backlash that exposed anti-foreigner sentiment in South Africa.
The recent pageant wasn’t without controversy, with a diplomatic row threatening her participation. However, her confidence, charm, and compelling advocacy earned her the prestigious Miss Nigeria title. Her inspiring journey highlights resilience, turning obstacles into stepping stones on her path to success.
In a dazzling finale marked by resilience and grace, Nigeria’s latest beauty queen emerged victorious despite a tense pageant dispute involving South Africa. The controversy centered on eligibility issues but didn’t overshadow her exceptional poise, intelligence, and advocacy for social change. Her win captivated audiences, symbolizing cultural pride and determination. Fans celebrated her success, seeing it as a triumph of authenticity over adversity. As she steps into her role, expectations soar for her impactful representation of Nigeria on the global stage.
Despite not being in the country in 20 years, organizers of the Nigerian contest invited her to join their final, saying it was a chance for her to “represent your father’s native land on an international stage”.
“We all need to stop with the xenophobia… with the tribalism,” first runner-up Paula Ezendu told AFP.
“We’re all one family. We’re all human beings,” she added.
She will represent Nigeria at the international Miss Universe competition in November.
“I know we are going to win,” she told reporters.
