Nigerian beauty queen, Chidimma Adetshina, has made history as the first Nigerian to secure the first runner-up position at the Miss Universe pageant, finishing second at the 2024 edition held on 16 November in Mexico City.
Competing against over 120 contestants from around the world, Adetshina delivered Nigeria’s best-ever performance in the prestigious competition.
Chidimma’s path to Miss Universe has not been without controversy. She previously entered the Miss South Africa pageant but withdrew following criticism of her nationality and allegations from South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs concerning her mother’s documents.
She was later invited to participate in Miss Universe Nigeria and emerged as the winner of the beauty pageant ahead of 24 other contestants.
The 2024 Miss Universe crown later went to Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, marking her as the first Dane to win the title in 61 years.
The top five were rounded out by Miss Mexico, María Fernanda Beltrán Figueroa, in third place, along with contestants from Thailand and Venezuela.
This year’s pageant was celebrated as one of the most inclusive in Miss Universe history, featuring first-time entries from Iran and Somalia and an expanded lineup of 30 semifinalists, showcasing greater diversity and global representation.
As the newly crowned Miss Universe 2024, Theilvig will embark on a year-long reign, dedicating herself to charitable initiatives and advocating for women’s empowerment worldwide.
