Chidimma Adetshina has made history as the first Nigerian to finish as the first runner-up at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, held at Arena CDMX in Mexico City. Denmark’s Victoria Kjaer Theilvig emerged as the winner of the prestigious competition.
Adetshina’s path to the Miss Universe stage was marked by controversy and resilience. Born in South Africa to a Nigerian father, the 23-year-old initially competed in Miss South Africa but was forced to withdraw following a nationality dispute. Her participation sparked backlash, with critics questioning her eligibility due to her Nigerian heritage.
The situation escalated after allegations emerged that her mother may have used a stolen identity to settle in South Africa. Adetshina eventually stepped back from the contest, citing threats to her safety and that of her family amid rising xenophobic sentiment.
Despite the challenges, the Miss Universe Nigeria organization invited Adetshina to compete in its pageant, giving her the chance to represent Nigeria on the international stage. Adetshina accepted, saying she felt a strong connection to her father’s homeland.
Ahead of the Miss Universe finals, Adetshina shared an emotional Instagram post, reflecting on her journey and expressing gratitude to Nigerians for their support. “To my dearest Nigerians, with open arms, you carried me on wheels made of the purest love and intentions,” she wrote. She also thanked the Miss Universe Nigeria Organization and Silverbird Group for their efforts to protect her and keep her dream alive.
