On Sunday, November 17, 2024, Nigerian beauty queenChidinma Adetshina became the First Runner-Up at Miss Universe 2024– a remarkable, first-of-its-kind feat that was not without its challenges. The 23-year-old had always wanted to compete in pageants, but it was only in 2017 that she became aware of the industry and was intrigued by it. She tried to compete for the first time in 2022. She did not make it.
On her second try this year, she got into the Miss South Africa competition, but her participation caused an uproar in the country. Born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a Mozambican mother, Adetshina's nationality became a subject of intense debate on social media.
Leaving Miss South Africa
On August 8, 2024, Adetshinawithdrew from the Miss SA competition amidst debates about identity and representation. “Being part of the Miss South Africa 2024 competition has been an amazing journey. However, after much careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw myself from the competition for the safety and well-being of my family and I,”she wrote. “I would like to take this opportunity to wish my fellow finalists all the best for the remainder of the competition. Whoever wears the crown represents us all.”
Becoming Miss Universe Nigeria
Photo by Benson Ibeabuchi /AFP via Getty Images
Chidimma Adetshina poses with her crown at the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 held at the Eko Hotel Convention Centre on 31 August, 2024.
After withdrawing from the competition in South Africa, Adetshina wasinvited to participate inMiss Universe Nigeria by the Silverbird group, organizers of the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant. Adetshina accepted this invitation and returned to Nigeria to represent Taraba state. On August 31, 2024, at the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos, she was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria, securing her place on the international stage.
“What an incredible journey this has been. Standing here as Miss Universe Nigeria is a dream come true, and I am deeply, honored and humbled to wear this crown tonight,” Adetshinasaid, adding, “As I accept this honor, I want to share a vision that burns deeply within me, a vision of African unity and peaceful co-existence!”
Representing Nigeria at the Miss Universe finale
Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images.
Miss Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina and Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjær Theilvig, wait for the winner to be announced in The 73rd Miss Universe Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 16, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico.
By the time Adetshinaarrived in Mexico City in October, she had become a favorite among fans across the continent. Hernational costume, inspired by Nigeria’s cultural heritage and featuring rich elements of ethnic artistry, became an online sensation, with manypraising its breathtaking design.
On November 16, 2024, Adetshina took to the stage at Miss Universe. Her performances during the evening gown and swimsuit segments were graceful and confident. When she was announced as First Runner-Up, the room erupted in applause—not just for her placement but for the way she had represented herself and her country.
Adetshina’s win is the highest ever for Nigeria at Miss Universe. Although the crown ultimately went to Denmark’s Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, Adetshina’s impact is undeniable—and this is just the beginning. Her advocacy work has gained traction, and she has become a role model for many young women in Nigeria and beyond.
Adetshina’s journey is a reminder that setbacks can become stepping stones, and dreams are worth chasing—even when the road is difficult.
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