Chidimma Adetshina Shines as First Runner-Up at 73rd Miss Universe

Chidimma Adetshina, Nigeria’s representative, made an impressive mark at the 73rd Miss Universe competition, finishing as the first runner-up.

The pageant, held in Mexico City’s Arena CDMX, witnessed a thrilling showdown between Adetshina and Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, with Denmark ultimately securing the crown.

Adetshina, 23, competed alongside other top contestants from countries like Mexico, Thailand, Venezuela, Argentina, and Canada, making it to the final two.

Her performance earned her widespread admiration from both judges and viewers, with her elegance, intelligence, and poise standing out throughout the competition. In addition to her runner-up position, Chidimma was also named Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.

This achievement is a significant milestone for Nigeria, especially considering the strong history of past winners from countries like Denmark and Venezuela. It also highlights the growing prominence of Nigerian beauty queens on the global stage.

Before reaching the Miss Universe finale, Chidimma’s journey was not without controversy. She withdrew from the Miss South Africa 2024 pageant after allegations of identity theft, which sparked debate. Despite the setbacks, she later entered the Miss Universe Nigeria competition, representing Taraba State, and emerged victorious against formidable contestants, including Miss Anambra Paula Ezendu and Miss Edo, Brittany Edeifo.

In celebration of her achievement, Chidimma shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, thanking the Silverbird Group for turning her dream into a reality.

She also acknowledged the support of Nigerians, saying, “With open arms, you carried me on wheels made of the purest love and intentions. You’ve given me a second chance at life.”

In addition to her Miss Universe accomplishments, Chidimma was recently appointed the brand ambassador for Enugu State. On October 10, 2024, she expressed her gratitude to Enugu’s Governor, Dr. Peter Ndubisi Mbah, for the honor.

Chidimma’s success marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s beauty pageant history. She joins the ranks of Nigerian pageant icons, including Agbani Darego, who in 2001 became the first Black African to win Miss World.