Despite not having lived in Nigeria for over 20 years, Chidimma Adetshina received an invitation from the Miss Universe Nigeria Organization to compete for the national crown, giving her the opportunity to represent her father’s homeland on the international stage.
Mexico City – In a historic achievement, Nigeria’s representative, Chidimma Adetshina, has emerged as the first runner-up at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, held at Arena CDMX in Mexico City.
The competition concluded with Denmark’s Victoria Kjaer Theilvig being crowned Miss Universe 2024.
Adetshina’s journey to the global stage has been marked by both triumph and adversity. The 23-year-old, who was born in South Africa to a Nigerian father, faced significant challenges leading up to the pageant. Before representing Nigeria, she participated in the Miss South Africa competition, where she had to withdraw before the final round due to a heated nationality controversy.
The backlash in South Africa, marked by xenophobic sentiment, erupted after Adetshina was named a finalist in July. Allegations also emerged that her mother had allegedly stolen a South African woman’s identity, leading to an investigation by the government. Amid threats and rising tensions, Adetshina withdrew from the Miss South Africa competition, citing concerns for the safety of her family.
Despite not having lived in Nigeria for over 20 years, Adetshina received an invitation from the Miss Universe Nigeria Organization to compete for the national crown, giving her the opportunity to represent her father’s homeland on the international stage. The organization extended a warm welcome and provided her with the platform to fulfill her dream.
In a show of gratitude, Adetshina expressed her deep appreciation to Nigerians in an emotional Instagram post ahead of the Miss Universe finals. Reflecting on her journey, she wrote:
“Many wonder why I didn’t stop. Many asked, ‘Why not let it be for now? Your life might be at risk.’ Some questioned, ‘Why isn’t she giving up? Does she crave the clout?’ I sat back, overwhelmed with so many unanswered questions as life moved faster than I could process. But do you know what? My dreams have kept me afloat.
“To my dearest Nigerians, with open arms, you carried me on wheels made of the purest love and intentions. I still cannot fully comprehend the reasons, but what matters most is that you’ve given me a second chance at life. For a moment, my life flashed before my eyes, but in the next breath, Nigeria refueled my purpose and my reason to live.
“As I step onto the Miss Universe stage tonight, I carry with me over 2 million beads of love, strength, and an unstoppable spirit. In this very moment, history is being made through my story. I call upon all my ancestors to guide my path with ease and grace. I promise to give my very best while you continue to pray for me.
“A heartfelt thank you to Silverbird Group and the Miss Universe Nigeria Organization for safeguarding my life and adding more fuel to my journey through the universe.
“I am ready to emerge. Let history be made, while we have fun.”
Adetshina’s heartfelt message resonated widely, with supporters praising her resilience and dedication. Her achievement as the first Nigerian to finish as Miss Universe first runner-up marks a significant moment in Nigerian pageantry history.
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