Chidimma Adetshina, a 23-year-old with dual Nigerian and South African heritage, has been crowned Miss Universe Nigeria, following a controversial attempt to compete in the Miss South Africa pageant last month.
Born in South Africa to a Nigerian father and South African mother, Adetshina found herself at the center of a national debate in South Africa when her participation in the Miss South Africa pageant was opposed by some citizens, including a government minister, due to her Nigerian roots. The controversy led to her withdrawal from the competition.
Upon winning the Miss Universe Nigeria title, an elated Adetshina addressed the audience, saying, “I just want everyone to know that this crown is not just a crown of beauty, it is going to unite us as one. I am really proud and grateful that I am going to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe, and I know we are going to win.”
The controversy surrounding Adetshina’s attempt to compete in Miss South Africa brought to light the issue of xenophobia experienced by Nigerians in South Africa. This tension has occasionally escalated into violence and attacks against Nigerian businesses in the country.
Adetshina’s victory in Nigeria and her forthcoming representation of the country at the global Miss Universe pageant in Mexico this November marks a significant turn of events. It highlights the complex interplay of identity, nationality, and cultural acceptance in the world of international beauty pageants.
