Nigeria’s representative at the 73rd Miss Universe competition, Chidimma Adetshina, has expressed her joy after finishing as the first runner-up at the prestigious global pageant held in Mexico on Sunday.
The final moments of the event at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City featured an electrifying face-off between Adetshina and Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig. Theilvig ultimately claimed the crown, succeeding Miss Universe 2023, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua.
In a post-pageant interview shared by the Miss Universe Nigeria organization on X.com, Adetshina said, “I’m so excited. I don’t have words to describe what I’m feeling right now, but I’m so proud of myself, and I just made history!”
Adetshina’s impressive performance came after a fierce competition involving 126 contestants from around the world, including 18 African nations. Her grace and talent reportedly earned her widespread admiration from judges and audiences alike.
Her journey to the Miss Universe stage was not without challenges. Earlier this year, she withdrew from the Miss South Africa 2024 competition, where she had advanced to the final stage, due to controversy surrounding her nationality. Undeterred, Adetshina competed in Miss Universe Nigeria, representing Taraba State, and emerged as the winner.
Her achievement marks a proud moment for Nigeria on the global stage.