South African-Nigerian Beauty Queen Embraced in Nigeria After Xenophobic Backlash
Chidimma Adetshina, a 23-year-old law student who was born in Soweto to a Nigerian father, is getting a second chance in the world of beauty pageants. After facing intense xenophobic backlash in South Africa that forced her to withdraw from the Miss South Africa contest, Adetshina is now vying for the title of Miss Universe Nigeria.
Adetshina’s participation in the South African pageant led to a torrent of online abuse and accusations, including a government investigation into her mother potentially stealing the identity of a South African woman. To ensure her family’s safety, Adetshina decided to pull out of the contest.
However, her journey did not end there. The organizers of Miss Universe Nigeria welcomed her warmly, offering her the opportunity to compete in Nigeria. Guy Murray-Bruce, founder of Miss Universe Nigeria, expressed a desire to foster unity and combat racism. “We shouldn’t be fighting with one another. I want Africa, the black continent, to be united,” he stated.
Adetshina, who has just met her fellow contestants in Lagos, is relieved to be in a more accepting environment. The other 24 women competing for the Miss Universe Nigeria crown have shown immense support, treating her like a new “sister.”
Lucille Oputa, 25, representing Abuja, emphasized that beauty contests should be places of love and inclusion. She also highlighted that Nigeria is not xenophobic, unlike what Adetshina experienced in South Africa.
Chioma Ogbonna, a 27-year-old Canadian-Nigerian dual national representing Plateau State, echoed similar sentiments, advocating for understanding and unity. “I hope that Chidimma can live her dream here in Nigeria,” Ogbonna said.
Miss Ekiti, Esther Gabriel, emphasized the importance of unity and building bridges across different races, tribes, languages, and colors, reinforcing the spirit of inclusivity.
Miss Kwara, Ufa Dania, who has faced online harassment herself as the first plus-sized contestant in the pageant, expressed solidarity with Adetshina. She sees beauty pageants as a platform for empowerment, allowing women to showcase their talents, intellect, and beauty.
Despite the challenges, Adetshina remains proud of her dual heritage, stating, “I am proud to be South African and Nigerian.” With just six days to prepare for the contest, she is eager to represent Taraba State in northeast Nigeria and make her mark in this welcoming new environment.
