Former Miss South Africa finalist, Chidimma Adetshina has returned to Nigeria for the first time in 20 years to compete in the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant.
She arrived in Lagos on Wednesday and expressed her excitement about reconnecting with her roots.
“I’m just thrilled to be back in my father’s land after 20 years,” Chidimma shared with the press.
“I’m eager to immerse myself in the culture and learn more about where I truly come from.”
Chidimma also spoke about her determination to win the Miss Universe Nigeria crown, emphasising her desire to use her platform to promote unity and celebrate diversity.
“My goal is obviously to win the crown.
“As someone who has faced adversity, I want to use my story to bring people together. We should value diversity and celebrate our differences—it’s the key to building a stronger community where everyone is recognised and appreciated.”
She expressed her gratitude to the Silverbird Group for giving her the opportunity to compete after she was forced to withdraw from the Miss South Africa pageant due to a nationality dispute and xenophobic attacks.
In addition to her modeling career, Chidimma is also pursuing a law degree and plans to continue her education after the pageant.
“I’m a law student, and once I graduate, I’d like to further my studies in that field,” she added.
Chidimma, who accepted the invitation from the Miss Universe Nigeria organisers, will represent Taraba State as Contestant Number 25 in the pageant.
The grand finale is scheduled to take place on August 31, 2024, at the Eko Convention Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos.
