Nigerians and South Africans came together in a show of solidarity for Nigerian-South African model Chidimma Adetshina as she participated in the Miss Universe International beauty pageant. The grand finale of the prestigious competition took place earlier today, November 17, 2024, at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, Mexico.
This year marked the 73rd edition of Miss Universe, featuring 126 contestants from across the globe, including 18 participants from African countries such as Nigeria, Angola, and Egypt. Adetshina, who made headlines earlier this year, had initially withdrawn from the Miss South Africa 2024 beauty pageant after reaching the final stage, due to concerns raised by some South Africans questioning her ties to the country. However, in a surprising turn of events, she later won the Miss Universe Nigeria title, representing Taraba State.
As Adetshina graced the international stage, both Nigerian and South African fans rallied behind her, expressing unwavering support for her journey. Former beauty queen Mitchel Ihueze, a past Miss Universe Nigeria, shared heartfelt words on Instagram: “As you take the stage tonight, remember that regardless of the outcome, you are, and will always be, a queen. You’ve made Nigeria proud, and we couldn’t have asked for a better Miss Universe representative.”
Support poured in from across the globe. Fan Egwu Onye wrote, “I am proud of you, Chidimma… all my votes are for you.” Another supporter, Khumali, declared, “Wear the crown. You are born for this. May the Lord guide your steps and give you strength.” Ochuko added, “We are solidly rooting for you… you’ve got this.”
Coco Petali, a Zimbabwean fan, expressed, “I’m Zimbabwean, but Chichi’s journey touched me—maybe because xenophobia hits a little too close to home. She is a true star.” The support from both Nigeria and South Africa underscores the unity that Adetshina has fostered in her journey to the Miss Universe stage.
