Chidimma Adetshina has expressed deep gratitude to both Nigeria and Africa for their unwavering support after being named the first runner-up at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant in Mexico.
Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, won the competition, while Chidimma was awarded the title of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.
The 23-year-old’s path to the Miss Universe stage was challenging, with controversy over her citizenship causing setbacks.
During the 2024 Miss South Africa competition, she faced xenophobic remarks and criticism due to her Nigerian background.
Although Chidimma was born and raised in South Africa, her mother is from Mozambique and her father from Nigeria.
In August, she withdrew from the Miss South Africa competition after South African Home Affairs accused her parents of identity fraud related to her citizenship at birth.
In an emotional Instagram post, Chidimma thanked Nigeria for being her support during a difficult time when she felt ready to give up. She wrote, “Thank you is not enough for all the support you’ve shown. You picked me up when I was at my lowest. I’ve never opened up much, but I was ready to give up on my life, and you became my strength.”
She also expressed gratitude to Africa for its love and solidarity, emphasizing that while she represented Nigeria, she felt the continent united behind her. “My voice, my story touched many and brought us together,” she said, highlighting the lesson of unity and her hope for a society that celebrates diversity. Chidimma added that this experience is just the beginning of her journey.
