Chidimma Adetshina expresses gratitude to Nigeria

Chidimma Adetshina, Miss Nigeria 2024, has expressed her gratitude to Nigeria and Africa for their steadfast support after being named first runner-up at the Miss Universe 2024 finale.

CHIDIMMA EMERGES AS MISS UNIVERSE 2024 FIRST RUNNER-UP

The 23-year-old model is beaming with pride after being crowned the first runner-up of Miss Universe 2024 and the titleholder for Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.

The prestigious crowning ceremony took place at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, Mexico, early on Sunday morning, where Miss Nigeria and Miss Denmark were both vying for the title.

Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, representing Denmark, was crowned the winner, while Chidimma Adetshina was named first runner-up.

Taking to Instagram, Chidimma expressed gratitude for the support from Nigerians, stating that the country helped her during a time when she was about to give up on her life.

“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 so 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 to each and everyone for walking this journey with me,” she said.

A NEW BEGINNING FOR CHIDIMMA

She also conveyed deep appreciation to Africa for supporting her during the challenges she encountered.

“To Africa, thank you for showing your love and support as much as I represent Nigeria. Africa fought for me. My voice and 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 all can be accepted and celebrated by one another. This is not the end, but the beginning of my journey. Love you, Miss Universe. First Runner Up,” she wrote.

CHIDIMMA JOURNEY TO MISS UNIVERSE

The 23-year-old’s journey to Miss Universe was not smooth sailing. Her tenacity and determination have been widely praised.

This is as she withdrew from the Miss South Africa competition due to mounting questions about her eligibility and identity.

The controversy stemmed from her background as she was born to a South African mother of Mozambican heritage and a Nigerian father. This sparked a nationwide debate, which was ultimately addressed by the Department of Home Affairs following an investigation.

The department discovered prima facie evidence suggesting that Chidimma Adetshina’s mother, may have committed identity fraud.