‘It’s about sisterhood’: Miss Universe Nigeria contestants support Chidimma Adetshina after citizenship dispute - Video
In a show of unity, former Miss South Africa Top 11 finalist, Chidimma Adetshina, has been welcomed by her fellow contestants at Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, following a citizenship row that forced her to withdraw from the South African pageant.
Adetshina, who faced harassment and criticism over her Nigerian heritage, has officially joined the Miss Universe Nigeria competition, representing the northeastern state of Taraba.
The controversy surrounding Adetshina’s dual identity led to significant backlash during her participation in Miss South Africa, causing her to step back. “It was not an easy experience. It was really tough. There would be times where I wouldn’t even feel like going outside, and I would cry myself to sleep because I don’t think anybody deserves the kind of backlash that I received,” Adetshina shared at the official unveiling of the Miss Universe Nigeria contestants in Lagos. “I know that I’ve grown through everything. I’ve bounced back from all these challenges and obstacles. It has just really proved the strength, courage, and resilience that I have,” she is quoted by the AFP.
Her arrival was warmly received by the other Miss Universe Nigeria contestants, who rallied to show their support. “It’s all about sisterhood. At the end of the day, we are all one. What matters is that we are humans,” said Esther Gabriel, another contestant. “We should always remember that it’s not about race, tribe, language, or skin colour. What matters is that we bleed the same blood, and we are all humans, regardless of our backgrounds.”
Chioma Ogbonna, a contestant with Canadian citizenship, expressed gratitude to Guy Murray-Bruce, the national director of Miss Universe Nigeria, for extending an invitation to Adetshina. “She is South African, as well as Nigerian. I am Nigerian-Canadian. The Canadians would never discriminate against me if I wanted to compete for Miss Universe Canada because I’m Nigerian, because they understand that we’re all multicultural.”
Adetshina is now set to compete for the 2024 Miss Universe Nigeria crown as Miss Taraba.
