Miss Nigeria Shines Despite Adversity: A Journey of Resilience at Miss Universe

Chidimma Adetshina, crowned Miss Nigeria and second runner-up at the Miss Universe competition, is breaking barriers and making history amid adversity surrounding her nationality.

Chidimma Adetshina has emerged as a symbol of resilience and pride after securing second place in the Miss Universe competition held in Mexico City. The law student from Nigeria not only made history as the highest-placed black African woman since Zozibini Tunzi’s win in 2019, but also earned the titles of Miss Africa and Miss Oceania.

Reflecting on her achievement, Adetshina expressed her pride, stating, "I'm so proud of myself, and I just made history." She faced significant challenges before even stepping onto the Miss Universe stage, having initially participated in the Miss South Africa competition, where she encountered xenophobic abuse rooted in her Nigerian heritage.

The controversy escalated when South African authorities announced intentions to revoke her identity papers due to allegations regarding her mother's nationality. These allegations were met with scrutiny, particularly as Adetshina was just an infant during the time of the alleged fraud. Neither Adetshina nor her mother has publicly addressed the claims made against them.

Subsequently, she transitioned to represent Nigeria after winning the Miss Nigeria competition, allowing her to qualify for the prestigious Miss Universe event. Notably, the original winner of Miss South Africa, Mia le Roux, had to withdraw from the competition due to medical reasons, further paving the way for Adetshina's representation.

Despite her achievements, the celebration of her success was met with mixed reactions on social media. Following a congratulatory tweet from Miss Universe South Africa, which included both South African and Nigerian flags, some South African users expressed their belief that she did not embody their national identity.

In a candid interview with the BBC, Adetshina affirmed her dual identity, saying, "I see myself as proudly South African and proudly Nigerian." To cope with the distress stemming from the bullying and xenophobia she endured, she has expressed intentions to pursue therapy.

Chidimma Adetshina’s remarkable story of overcoming prejudice and championing self-pride serves as an inspiring narrative within the realms of beauty competitions and beyond, shedding light on larger societal issues that extend far beyond individual contests.