Chidimma Adetshina was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 at a star-studded event held at the Eko Hotel Convention Centre in Victoria Island.
Adetshina’s win came after a whirlwind of controversy around her citizenship.
She was forced to withdraw from Miss South Africa 2024 just days before the finale after Home Affairs found prima facie evidence that her parents may have allegedly committed identity fraud when she was born, raising question marks around her citizenship in South Africa.
In her first interview since her win, the beauty queen shed tears while sharing the story of how she came to represent Nigeria at the popular pageant.
“It all started because of my name. People where not happy that my name is Chidimma and I am representing South Africa, so that is where it actually really started.
“South Africans felt like I wasn’t South African enough because of my name. It was really sad to see, it was a really horrible experience and I wouldn’t wish it on anybody because I have lived there for 23 years and it’s heartbreaking to see that I wasn’t welcome and accepted,” said an emotional Adetshina.
She spoke about things that happened behind the scenes that made her withdraw from the Miss SA pageant.
“It was so heartbreaking to see that I had to withdraw so close to the finale, but a decision had to be made and it really hit social media as well.
“There were some statements that came out from Home Affairs regarding my mom’s ID as well, and that is still a legal matter ... What I do know is that I was born in South Africa and I am South African and I’m still proudly Nigerian as well.”
She said she was excited to get an invitation to represent Nigeria.
“To see that they saw that potential and the love that I received, it has been exceptional, not only from the organisation and the girls, but from Nigeria and all over the world, and that is my whole journey.”
Overcome with emotions, Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina, the newly crowned Miss Universe Nigeria, breaks down in tears as she reflects on her journey. From a contestant in the Miss South Africa pageant to her current reign as Miss Universe Nigeria
— News Live SA (@newslivesa) September 2, 2024
“it all started because of my… pic.twitter.com/tOmgezLic2
Taking to Instagram, Adetshina dedicate her crown to God.
A part of her message said: “As I accept this honour, I want to share a vision that burns deeply within me, a vision of African unity and peaceful co existence!
“Let’s break down the barriers that divide us. Let’s foster a continent where every African can move freely without prejudice, pursue their dreams, and contribute to the growth and prosperity of our great continent.
“This crown is not just a symbol of beauty, it is a call to action.”
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