Historic Invitation: Chidimma Adetshina to Represent Nigeria at Miss Universe 2024
In a groundbreaking move, the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant has extended an unprecedented invitation to Chidimma Adetshina, a finalist in the recently concluded Miss South Africa 2024 contest, to participate in the 2024 edition of the pageant. Adetshina, a 300-level law student, has accepted the invitation and will now represent Nigeria at the 73rd Miss Universe competition in Mexico in November.
Adetshina’s journey to the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant has been marked by controversy. She withdrew from the Miss South Africa competition amidst claims of South African citizenship and Nigerian heritage. Her participation sparked both support and criticism, with some labeling it “Black-on-Black hate.” The controversy intensified when a traditional marriage video surfaced, leading to claims that married or divorced women should not be allowed to compete. However, the Miss South Africa organisation clarified that marital status does not disqualify contestants.
The Department of Home Affairs for South Africa also investigated the situation and discovered that Adetshina’s mother was involved in identity fraud, leading to criminal charges being pressed against all implicated parties.
Adetshina’s acceptance of the Miss Universe Nigeria invitation marks a new standard for the pageant, which has never extended an invitation to a contestant before. The Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 competition, organised by Silverbird Productions, provides a platform for the winner to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe competition.
In a viral video, Adetshina expressed her gratitude to those who have shown her love and support, saying, “I have decided to participate in the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 beauty pageant. I understand the expectations and responsibilities of this title, and I am so excited to embark on this journey.”
The Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 competition will be held in November, with Ugochi Mitchell Ihezue, Miss Universe Nigeria 2023, and Sectra Okundaye, the first runner-up crowned Miss Supranational Nigeria 2023, among the recent titleholders.
