Chidimma Adetshina: The Nigerian Beauty Queen Who Captured the World's Heart as Miss Universe First Runner-Up

• 30 Apr, 2025
• News
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Nigerian beauty queen, Chidimma Adetshina, has made history by becoming the first Nigerian—and African—to be crowned Miss Universe first runner-up since Agbani Darego’s legendary top 10 finish in 2001.

Chidimma’s journey to the Miss Universe stage has been nothing short of inspiring. In August 2024, she was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, representing Nigeria’s Taraba State. Her win marked a significant moment for Nigeria, as she emerged victorious from a competitive field of 24 contestants.

The pageant, held at the Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos, was broadcast live on GOtv and YouTube. It was this victory that later secured Chidimma a spot to represent Nigeria at the prestigious Miss Universe pageant.

On November 16, 2024, Chidimma graced the Miss Universe stage in Mexico City, competing against 126 contestants from around the world. Despite not clinching the coveted Miss Universe title, which went to Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig, her exceptional performance earned her the prestigious first runner-up position.

Before taking the global stage, Chidimma shared a candid Instagram post reflecting on her journey, its challenges, triumphs, and the overwhelming support she received. She acknowledged the doubts and questions that surrounded her: “Many asked why not [I] let it be for now? Your life might be at risk,” she wrote. Others questioned her perseverance. But even though she was overwhelmed, her dreams kept her going.

Expressing her gratitude to Nigerians, she added, “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 refueled my purpose and my reason to live. As I step onto the Miss Universe Stage tonight, I carry with me over 2 million beads of love, strength, and an unstoppable spirit. In this very moment, history is being made through my story. I call upon all my ancestors to guide my path with ease and grace. I promise to give my very best while you continue to pray for me.”

She concluded by thanking the Silverbird Group and the Miss Universe Nigeria Organization for their support and dedication.

With Chidimma’s victory, social media has been abuzz with excitement, captivating the hearts of Nigerians and inspiring millions of young people worldwide. Her victory has also ignited a sense of national pride and raised the bar for future generations of Nigerian beauty queens. And while Nigerians celebrate this historic moment, a question lingers: Can Nigeria claim the top spot at the next Miss Universe pageant? For many patriotic Nigerians, the answer will be a big “Yes.”