By DAYO ADESULU
Chidimma Adetshina, Nigeria’s representative at the 73rd Miss Universe Competition, delivered an outstanding performance, finishing as the first runner-up. The grand finale, held early Sunday at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, captivated global audiences with its electrifying showdown between Nigeria and Denmark.
Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, ultimately claimed the coveted crown, succeeding Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua as Miss Universe. Despite narrowly missing the top spot, Adetshina’s elegance, poise, and intelligence earned her widespread admiration from judges and viewers alike.
A Controversial Journey to the Global Stage
Adetshina’s path to the Miss Universe stage was not without controversy. Months earlier, she withdrew from the Miss South Africa 2024 contest, where she had reached the finals, after facing criticism over her nationality from some South Africans.
Undeterred, Adetshina went on to represent Taraba State, claiming the title of Miss Universe Nigeria. Her resilience and determination have made her an inspiration for many, showcasing the strength of character required to succeed on an international platform.
Celebrating Nigerian Excellence in Global Pageantry
Chidimma Adetshina’s remarkable achievement at Miss Universe is a continuation of Nigeria’s legacy in global beauty pageants. Her performance brings to mind the historic win of Agbani Darego, who, on November 16, 2001, became the first Black African to claim the Miss World title.
Agbani’s victory at age 18 remains a cultural milestone, inspiring generations of Nigerian women. Similarly, Adetshina’s accomplishment highlights the grace, talent, and global competitiveness of Nigerian representatives on the world stage.
The Global Appeal of Miss Universe 2025
This year’s Miss Universe competition, hosted in Mexico, was celebrated as one of the most thrilling in recent years. The event highlighted the talents, intelligence, and beauty of women from diverse backgrounds.
In a post shared on Instagram, the organizers wrote, “The final two! Nigeria and Denmark, two incredible women, one unforgettable moment.” The statement captured the excitement of the nail-biting conclusion, which showcased the excellence of both finalists.