Chidimma Adetshina to compete in Miss Universe Nigeria after withdrawing from Miss South Africa
Chidimma Adetshina, the pageant contestant who withdrew from Miss South Africa amid a nationality dispute, has been invited to compete in Miss Universe Nigeria.
The 23-year-old expressed her excitement about joining “Africa’s most prestigious beauty pageant” in a video shared on Instagram.
Adetshina, a South African citizen, faced backlash for her eligibility in the Miss South Africa competition due to her Nigerian father and Mozambican mother.
The Home Affairs department investigated claims of “identity fraud” regarding her mother’s South African nationality, leading Adetshina to withdraw for her family’s safety.
Following her exit from Miss South Africa, Miss Universe Nigeria offered her a chance to compete, stating her “journey in the world of pageantry is far from over” and highlighting that she would have the opportunity to “represent her father’s native land on the international stage.”
It remains unclear if Adetshina holds Nigerian citizenship. The winner of Miss Universe Nigeria will represent the country at the Miss Universe competition.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s Home Affairs department continues to investigate the case and consider legal implications for Adetshina’s citizenship.
The Miss South Africa pageant, which took place last Saturday, saw Mia le Roux crowned as the first deaf winner in history.
If Adetshina secures the Miss Universe Nigeria title, she will compete against le Roux at the Miss Universe event in November.
Source-BBC
