Chidimma Adetshina, a contestant whose Nigerian heritage sparked national controversy in South Africa, was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria on Saturday, according to a BBC report. Adetshina, born to a Nigerian father in South Africa, had to withdraw from the Miss South Africa pageant after facing a surge of anti-foreigner sentiment.
Her selection as a finalist in the Miss South Africa competition in July triggered xenophobic attacks fueled by her Nigerian background. The situation was further complicated by allegations that her mother might have been involved in identity theft, with claims suggesting she had assumed the identity of a South African woman.
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In early August, Adetshina announced her withdrawal from the Miss South Africa contest, citing concerns for her family’s safety. She shared a statement on Instagram expressing that her decision was made for the “safety and wellbeing of my family and I.” The following day, she received an invitation from the organizers of the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant, as reported by CNN, offering her the opportunity to represent her father’s homeland on the international stage.
Overcome with emotion, Adetshina was moved to tears as she was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria on Saturday. “This crown is not just for beauty; it’s a call for unity,” the 23-year-old law student declared.
Reflecting on her journey, Adetshina shared her thoughts on Instagram, saying, “Standing here as Miss Universe Nigeria is a dream come true, and I am deeply honored and humbled to wear this crown tonight… As I accept this honor, I want to share a vision that burns deeply within me, a vision of African unity and peaceful co-existence. Let’s break down the barriers that divide us. Let’s foster a continent where every African can move freely without prejudice, pursue their dreams, and contribute to the growth and prosperity of our great continent.”
Adetshina previously revealed to local media that she was born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican descent, and she grew up in Cape Town. South African law grants citizenship by birth to anyone born in the country after 1995 to a South African parent or permanent resident.
Despite the challenges she faced during the Miss South Africa contest, Adetshina expressed her gratitude for the support and kindness she received from many South Africans who stood by her.
She will now go on to represent Nigeria at the international Miss Universe competition in November.
