Chidimma Adetshina has written her name into the annals of Nigerian pageant history by securing the first runner-up position at Miss Universe 2024, becoming the first Nigerian to achieve such a prestigious placement in the competition’s history. The remarkable achievement at the Mexico-hosted event saw Adetshina excel among 120 global contestants, finishing second only to Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig.
The victory carries particular emotional weight given Adetshina’s tumultuous journey to the international stage. Earlier this year, she faced a controversial exit from the Miss Universe South Africa pageant amid questions about her citizenship, despite having lived in South Africa for 23 years. Born to a South African mother and Nigerian father, Adetshina found herself caught in a complex web of identity politics that ultimately led to her withdrawal from the South African competition.
In an emotional interview with BBC News Pidgin, Adetshina revealed the personal toll of that experience, expressing her heartbreak at being deemed “not South African enough” merely because of her name. The rejection from a country she had called home for over two decades marked a painful chapter in her pageant journey.
However, fate took a positive turn when Guy Murray-Bruce, the National Director of Miss Universe Nigeria, extended an invitation for her to compete in the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant. Seizing this second chance, Adetshina emerged victorious among 25 contestants, earning the right to represent Nigeria on the global stage.
Her success at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant, where she finished ahead of strong contenders from Mexico, Thailand, and Venezuela, has been celebrated as both a personal triumph and a powerful statement about resilience and identity. The achievement has particularly resonated with Nigerians, who have taken to social media to celebrate what many view as a symbolic victory over prejudice.
The final rankings saw Mexico’s Maria Fernanda Beltran securing second runner-up, Thailand’s Suchata Chuangsri placing third runner-up, and Venezuela’s Ileana Marquez rounding out the top five. However, it was Adetshina’s historic achievement that captured headlines and imaginations across Africa.
The significance of her success extends beyond the pageant world, touching on broader themes of identity, acceptance, and perseverance in the face of adversity. Her journey from rejection in South Africa to triumph under the Nigerian flag has struck a chord with many who see in her story a reflection of broader struggles with identity and belonging in an increasingly interconnected world.
Social media has erupted with celebrations of Adetshina’s achievement, with many Nigerians viewing her success as a powerful response to earlier controversies. Comments ranging from “South Africans will not sleep well” to more measured celebrations of her “powerful story” reflect the emotional investment many have made in her journey.
The victory represents more than just a personal triumph for Adetshina; it marks a significant milestone for Nigerian pageantry on the global stage. Her success challenges preconceptions about beauty, identity, and nationality while setting a new benchmark for future Nigerian contestants in international competitions.
As the dust settles on this historic achievement, Adetshina’s journey from controversy to triumph serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of staying true to oneself despite adversity. Her story transcends the world of pageantry, speaking to universal themes of identity, acceptance, and the triumph of the human spirit over prejudice.
The achievement not only celebrates Adetshina’s personal victory but also marks a significant moment for Nigeria in international pageantry, proving that talent, grace, and determination can overcome even the most challenging circumstances. Her success story continues to inspire and resonate with people across borders, making it clear that beauty and excellence know no national boundaries.
