Chidimma Adetshina, Nigeria’s representative at the 73rd Miss Universe competition has expressed gratitude to Nigerians and Africans who rallied behind her during the global pageant.
In a heartfelt message shared on her Instagram Story on Sunday, Adetshina wrote, “To Nigeria: THANK YOU is not enough for all the support you’ve shown. You picked me up when I was at my lowest.
“I’ve never opened up much but I was ready to give up on my life but you became my strength. On days I never wanted to fight you gave me the strength to fight. I’m so grateful for each and everyone for walking this journey with me.”
She also acknowledged the solidarity of the continent saying, “To Africa: thank you for showing your love and support. As much as I represent Nigeria, Africa fought for me.
“My voice, my story touched many and brought us together. This journey has taught me the power of Unity. I want us to live in a society where we can all accept and celebrate one another.”
Adetshina emerged as the first runner-up and Miss Universe Africa and Oceania at the prestigious competition which concluded in Mexico City on Sunday morning.
Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig took home the crown, surpassing Adetshina in the final round.
Contestants from Bolivia, Mexico, Venezuela, Argentina, Puerto Rico, Russia, Chile, Thailand, Canada, and Peru also made it to the top 12 of the competition.
Adetshina’s impressive achievement is Nigeria’s best performance at the Miss Universe pageant.
Her fans in Nigeria and across the globe have celebrated her success, praising her for elevating Nigeria’s profile on the international stage.
At 23, Adetshina made history as the first Nigerian woman to secure the first runner-up position in the Miss Universe competition.
She follows in the footsteps of Agbani Darego who in 2001 became the first Nigerian to reach the top 10 of the competition, finishing seventh.
Adetshina’s journey to Miss Universe however was not without its challenges.
With a Nigerian father and a Mozambican mother, she faced criticism over her nationality, leading her to withdraw from the Miss South Africa pageant.
Her path took a new turn when the Silverbird Group, organisers of Miss Universe Nigeria, extended an invitation to her.
She went on to win the national title, setting the stage for her international success.
