In a historic achievement, Nigeria’s Chidimma Adetshina has secured the first runner-up position at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant, held in Mexico City. Competing against 126 contestants from around the world, including 18 from Africa, Adetshina’s performance has brought immense pride to Nigeria.
Adetshina’s journey to the Miss Universe stage began with her victory at the Miss Universe Nigeria competition, where she represented Taraba State. Her decision to participate in the national pageant came after withdrawing from the Miss South Africa 2024 contest, a move influenced by public debates surrounding her eligibility. “Winning Miss Universe Nigeria was a dream come true, and representing my country on the global stage was an honour,” Adetshina shared.
The Miss Universe 2024 pageant, hosted at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, saw contestants showcasing their talents, intelligence, and cultural heritage. Adetshina captivated the judges with her grace and eloquence, advancing from the top 30 to the final two contestants. “Chidimma’s elegance and poise were truly remarkable,” said one of the judges.
The crown ultimately went to Denmark’s Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, but Adetshina’s runner-up position marks a significant milestone for Nigeria. Her achievement underscores the potential of Nigerian women to excel on international platforms. “This is a proud moment for Nigeria and a testament to the beauty and talent of our women,” commented a representative from the Miss Universe Nigeria organisation.
Adetshina’s success has sparked excitement and pride among Nigerians and the broader African community. Her journey highlights the importance of perseverance and the impact of cultural representation on global stages. “I hope my journey inspires young girls in Nigeria to pursue their dreams with confidence,” Adetshina remarked.
The Miss Universe 2024 competition celebrated cultural diversity, with contestants bringing unique perspectives from their home countries. Adetshina’s historic win as a runner-up is expected to inspire future generations of Nigerian women in beauty and beyond.