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Chidimma Adetshina, representing Nigeria, made an unforgettable impact at the Miss Universe 2024 event, emerging as the first runner-up in a thrilling climax, thereby becoming the first Nigerian contestant to ever achieve such an impressive standing in the prestigious competition.
The 73rd Miss Universe pageant concluded with a dazzling finale at Arena CDMX in Mexico City, where Victoria Kjaer Theilvig from Denmark was crowned the winner, marking a significant achievement for her country.
Before she donned the Miss Universe Nigeria crown, Chidimma’s journey was fraught with obstacles. She had previously contested in South Africa but was forced to exit the competition before the final round, a result of a nationality dispute that clouded her participation.
Chidimma, a 23-year-old born to a Nigerian father in South Africa, made the difficult decision to withdraw from the competition, citing concerns for the safety and well-being of herself and her family. This came after a wave of backlash, which revealed deep-rooted anti-foreigner sentiments in the country.
In July, when Chidimma was announced as a finalist for Miss South Africa, her Nigerian heritage led to a wave of xenophobic attacks. This controversy was further fueled by a government investigation into accusations that her mother had fraudulently assumed the identity of a South African woman.
Despite not being in the country in 20 years, organisers of the Nigerian contest invited her to join their final, saying it was a chance for her to “represent your father’s native land on an international stage”.
The nationality controversy notwithstanding, Adetshina insisted she loved South Arica and was grateful for the support from the country.
Ahead of the Miss Universe finals, Chidimma dropped anemtional post on her Instagram page where she thanked Nigerians for welcoming her with lots of love after her South African ordeal.
Read also: South Africa Moves To Revoke Chidimma Adetshina’s ID
The post read, “Many wonder why I didn’t stop. Many asked, “Why not let it be for now? Your life might be at risk.” Some questioned, “Why isn’t she giving up? Does she crave the clout?” I sat back, overwhelmed with so many unanswered questions as life moved faster than I could process. But do you know what? My dreams have kept me afloat.
“To my dearest Nigerians, with open arms, you carried me on wheels made of the purest love and intentions. I still cannot fully comprehend the reasons, but what matters most is that you’ve given me a second chance at life. For a moment, my life flashed before my eyes, but in the next breath, Nigeria refueled my purpose and my reason to live.
“As I step onto the Miss Universe stage tonight, I carry with me over 2 million beads of love, strength, and an unstoppable spirit. In this very moment, history is being made through my story. I call upon all my ancestors to guide my path with ease and grace. I promise to give my very best while you continue to pray for me.
“A heartfelt thank you to Silverbird Group and the Miss Universe Nigeria Organization for safeguarding my life and adding more fuel to my journey through the universe.
