In a thrilling finale at the 2024 Miss Universe pageant, Chidimma Adetshina of Nigeria secured the first runner-up position, making history as the highest-ranking Nigerian contestant in the competition’s history.
Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark was crowned the winner of the 73rd edition of Miss Universe, held at Arena CDMX in Mexico City.
Chidimma’s path to the Miss Universe stage was anything but smooth. Before taking the Miss Universe Nigeria crown, she had participated in the Miss South Africa pageant, but was forced to withdraw just before the finals due to a nationality controversy.
Born to a Nigerian father in South Africa, the 23-year-old faced intense scrutiny after being named a finalist in the South African competition in July.
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Her Nigerian heritage sparked a wave of xenophobic backlash, and claims surfaced alleging that her mother might have stolen the identity of a South African woman.
In the face of these challenges, Chidimma decided to pull out of the competition, citing the safety and well-being of her family.
Despite living outside South Africa for over two decades, Chidimma was invited to join the Miss Universe Nigeria competition, where she proudly represented her father’s homeland.
Reflecting on the experience, she expressed gratitude for the support she received from Nigerians, particularly after her difficult time in South Africa.
Ahead of the Miss Universe finals, Chidimma shared an emotional message on Instagram, thanking Nigerians for embracing her with warmth and love following her ordeal in South Africa.
The post read, “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.”
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