Chidimma Adetshina has made history by becoming the first Nigerian to finish as the first runner-up at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, held in Mexico City. The 23-year-old’s impressive achievement marks a new milestone for Nigeria on the global stage of the prestigious beauty contest.
The Miss Universe crown was awarded to Denmark’s Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, who triumphed over 124 contestants from around the world. Theilvig succeeds Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, who was crowned Miss Universe in 2023. The final five contestants included representatives from Nigeria, Denmark, Thailand, Mexico, and Venezuela.
Furthermore, Adetshina’s participation in the competition showcased Nigeria’s heritage, with her national costume, “Nwanyi-Njiko,” designed by Abanobi Emmanuel Ifechukwu and Modela Couture, drawing praise. The design was a tribute to unity, strength, and Nigerian culture.
The road to the Miss Universe stage was not an easy one for Adetshina as she initially competed in South Africa, where a nationality dispute forced her to withdraw amid intense backlash. Born to a Nigerian father in South Africa, her selection as a Miss South Africa finalist in July sparked a heated debate, resulting in xenophobic attacks and widespread controversy over her Nigerian roots prompting Adetshina to withdraw for her family’s safety.
Thereafter, her return to Nigeria came after a 20-year absence, when she received an invitation to join the Miss Universe Nigeria contest. Despite lingering controversy in South Africa, she expressed her love for the country she grew up in while showing gratitude for the support she received from Nigerians.
Adetshina’s first runner-up finish at Miss Universe has been widely celebrated, representing a significant accomplishment for Nigeria in the global beauty contest.
