Samuel Nwajaju Makes History as First African Winner of Mister International

Samuel Nwajaju from Nigeria has made history by winning the 16th Mister International pageant in Bangkok, Thailand. This makes him the first African to win this big competition. Mister International is the second largest male beauty contest in the world, right after Mister World.

The pageant started in 2006 by Alan Sim, who has since passed away. It now attracts contestants from over 80 countries each year. This year, for the first time, the pageant allowed dads, married men, and divorced men to join.

Nwajaju, 23 years old and a student at the University of Port Harcourt, also won the Best Swimwear category.

He beat 47 other contestants, which is the most the pageant has ever had. He takes over from Kim Thitisan Goodburn of Thailand, beating strong competitors like Nguyễn Mạnh Lân from Vietnam and Glenn Victor Sutanto from Indonesia.

Nwajaju earned his spot in this international contest by winning the Mister of Nigeria 2024 title in Lagos earlier this year.

Winners of Mister International get various types of recognition, such as sponsorships and chances to work with big brands. They also take part in charity events and promotions around the world during their time as titleholders.

The pageant also supports cultural exchange, allowing winners to live anywhere they want during their reign.

Nwajaju’s win is not just a personal achievement but a proud moment for Nigeria, showing the growing presence of African nations in global male beauty pageants.