Nigeria’s Chidimma Adetshina Makes History as First Runner-Up at Miss Universe 2024

In a historic moment for Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina secured the first runner-up position at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, held at Arena CDMX in Mexico City on November 16, 2024. This marks the highest placement ever achieved by a Nigerian contestant in the competition’s history.

The crown, however, went to Denmark’s Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, who emerged as the winner of the global beauty contest.

Adetshina’s path to the Miss Universe stage was far from smooth. Before claiming the Miss Universe Nigeria title, she had competed in South Africa, where her participation ended abruptly due to a nationality controversy.

Born in South Africa to a Nigerian father, the 23-year-old faced intense backlash after being named a finalist in the Miss South Africa pageant earlier this year. Her Nigerian heritage became the focus of xenophobic attacks, and allegations emerged claiming her mother might have stolen a South African identity.

Amid rising tensions, Adetshina withdrew from the competition, citing concerns for her safety and that of her family. “For the safety and well-being of my family and I, I made the difficult decision to step down,” she said at the time.

Despite these challenges, Adetshina’s resilience and determination carried her to the Miss Universe stage, where she represented Nigeria with grace and poise. Her historic placement is being celebrated as a proud moment for the nation and a testament to her strength in overcoming adversity.

As the global audience applauds her achievement, Adetshina’s story highlights not only the beauty of diversity but also the courage required to stand tall in the face of criticism.