Chidinma Vanessa Adetshina, the reigning Miss Nigeria, has etched her name in history by clinching the first runner-up position at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant held in Mexico. Her journey to this global stage is a story of grit, perseverance, and the triumph of resilience over controversy.
Miss Chidinma Adetshina’s path to the Miss Universe stage wasn’t without its share of drama and was far from straightforward. Initially, she faced criticism and backlash after a failed attempt to participate in Miss South Africa due to identity issues. Social media was abuzz, with debates surrounding her eligibility, pushing her to later compete in Nigeria’s own Miss Universe pageant in 2024. Despite the odds, she pushed through the criticisms, clinching the Nigerian crown in a tightly contested finale held at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos.
At the Miss Universe event, her journey was closely watched, and her graceful handling of past controversies contributed to her appeal on the global stage. The event itself was a spectacle of glitz and glamour, with contestants from over 80 countries competing in a series of rigorous rounds. Multiple captivating moments, including a powerful opening sequence showcasing the contestants’ diverse cultures, which was followed by the evening gown and national costume segments where Chidinma Adetshina showcased an elaborate outfit inspired by Nigerian cultural motifs. Her poise in the evening gown round and eloquence during the Q&A session made her a favourite among the judges and the audience.
As the final announcements approached and Adetshina was declared first runner-up, it was a moment of immense pride, not just for her but for Nigeria as a whole. Her achievement marked one of the highest placements Nigeria has seen since beauty queen Agbani Darego was crowned Miss World in 2001, becoming the first African to win the title.
Beyond the glitz of the crown, Chidinma Vanessa Adetshina’s story is emblematic of overcoming public scrutiny and personal doubts. Her rise, underpinned by a narrative of reinvention, has made her a symbol of hope and a new face for Nigerian beauty on the global stage.
This crowning moment is more than a personal victory, as she now takes on her role with new-found responsibilities. She carries with her the hopes of a nation inspired by her journey from controversy to celebrated success on one of the world’s biggest platforms for beauty and cultural diplomacy.