Abuja, Nigeria | By Michael Wandati | Chidimma Adetshina has been named Miss Universe Nigeria following a controversial attempt to compete in Miss South Africa last month.
Adetshina, 23, who was born in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a South African mother, holds South African citizenship.
Her participation in Miss South Africa sparked a national debate, with some South Africans, including a government minister, opposing her involvement due to her Nigerian heritage.
Amid the controversy, Adetshina ultimately decided to withdraw from the competition.
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“I just want everyone to know that this crown is not just a crown of beauty, it is going to unite us as one. I am really proud and grateful that I am going to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe, and I know we are going to win,” an elated Adetshina told the audience.
The controversy surrounding Chidimma Adetshina has spotlighted the xenophobia faced by Nigerians in South Africa, which has at times escalated into violence and attacks on Nigerian-owned businesses.
Despite the dispute, Adetshina is set to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico this November.
