Chidimma Adetshina to Compete in Miss Universe Nigeria After Miss South Africa Controversy
Chidimma Adetshina, who was previously a contender for Miss South Africa, has announced her participation in Miss Universe Nigeria. This move follows her recent withdrawal from the Miss South Africa competition due to a citizenship dispute. Adetshina, 23, faced scrutiny after Home Affairs investigated her background, revealing that her mother might have been involved in identity fraud 23 years ago.
Adetshina, a mother of one, exited the Miss South Africa pageant, which was eventually won by Mia le Roux. Her departure was met with significant online backlash, with critics questioning her representation of South Africa due to her mixed heritage. Her mother is of Mozambican descent, and her father is Nigerian, which led some to argue that she did not truly represent South African identity.
In response to the situation, Miss Universe Nigeria extended an invitation to Adetshina. The organization expressed their enthusiasm for her to represent her father’s homeland on an international stage. Miss Universe Nigeria’s statement highlighted this as a valuable opportunity for Adetshina.
Adetshina confirmed her acceptance of the invitation through a video on Instagram, expressing her excitement and gratitude. She stated, “I have received an invitation from the [Silverbird Group](https://www.silverbirdgroup.com), the organizers of Miss Universe Nigeria, to participate in Miss Universe Nigeria 2024. I am thrilled to accept this invitation and look forward to being part of Africa’s most prestigious beauty pageant.”
Her decision to join Miss Universe Nigeria comes after a period of controversy and public pressure, including tweets and petitions demanding her removal from the Miss South Africa pageant. Adetshina cited concerns for her and her family’s safety as reasons for her withdrawal from Miss South Africa 2024.
This development marks a new chapter for Adetshina as she prepares to take on the Miss Universe Nigeria stage and showcase her heritage on a global platform.
