dyton mupawaenda
MEXICO CITY. – What a fairytale!
After a challenging year that included an attempt to win the Miss South Africa crown, Nigeria’s Chidimma Adetshina achieved a remarkable feat at the Miss Universe pageant, placing second to Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig, who took the crown.
As the highest-ranking African contestant, Adetshina was awarded the African title as well as Oceania’s.
“I’m ecstatic, wow,” she shared on social media, capturing the joy of her accomplishment.
“As someone who has persevered with grace, I believe I have fought not only for myself but for Africa,” she said.
Her journey is historic, marking her as the first Nigerian to place in the top five since Agbani Darego in 2001, who placed in the top 10 at Miss Universe before going on to win Miss World the same year.
Reflecting on her journey, Adetshina shared a heartfelt message with her followers on Instagram:
“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 refuelled my purpose and my reason to live.”
In a thrilling conclusion to the keenly contested Miss Universe 2024 competition, Chidimma made history at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant.
Adetshina made headlines a few months ago when she officially withdrew from the Miss South Africa 2024 beauty pageant after reaching its final stage. Her decision followed concerns raised by some South Africans questioning her ties to the country.
However, in a remarkable turn of events, she later clinched the Miss Universe Nigeria title, while representing Taraba State.
Miss Denmark – Victoria Kjaer Theilvig – emerged as winner of the contest. Theilvig takes over the crown from Miss Universe 2023 Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua.
The grand finale of the pageantry took place at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, Mexico.
This year’s edition featured 126 contestants representing countries worldwide, including 18 participants from African nations such as Nigeria, Angola, and Egypt.
Initially, Chidimma made it to the top 30 finalists and gradually rose to the top five contenders, ultimately securing the top two spot alongside Theilvig. – TimesLive/The Nation
Online Reporter