Chidimma Adetshina, a Nigerian-South African dual citizen who withdrew from the Miss South Africa pageant due to controversies surrounding her Nigerian roots, was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria yesterday.
Adetshina had withdrawn from the Miss South Africa pageant earlier in August this year after facing xenophobic attacks when it was revealed that she had foreign-born parents.
“I just want everyone to know that this crown is not just a crown of beauty, it is going to unite us as one. and I’m really proud and grateful that I am going to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe and I know we are going to win,” Adetshina said.
Despite being born and raised in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a Mozambican mother, her mixed heritage led some to question her eligibility, causing her to exit the competition.
South Africa’s Home Affairs Department alleging a potential “identity fraud” by Adetshina’s mother to secure South African citizenship further escalated the controversy.
The 22-year-old Adetshina, representing Nigeria’s Taraba state, competed against 24 other contestants in the pageant.
Ben Murray Bruce, a former Nigerian Senator and Chairman of Silverbird group – organisers of the event, said: “No Nigerian woman anywhere on earth who wants the platform to be successful, to get a fighting chance, that woman, that Nigerian, will never be denied that opportunity.”
Despite her ordeal, Adetshina said: “South Africa, I love you all so much. I am so grateful as well for your love and your support. I know it has not been a lovely journey, but I know that we can get better, and I love each one of you.”
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Adetshina will represent Nigeria at the global Miss Universe competition.
