Chidimma Adetshina, a former Miss South Africa contestant, has now joined the Miss Universe Nigeria competition, representing Taraba State. Born in Soweto at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in 2001, Chidimma’s background is multicultural—her father is of Igbo descent, and her mother, originally from Mozambique, has become a naturalized South African citizen.
Despite her promising start in Miss South Africa, her participation became a topic of controversy due to questions surrounding her nationality, which eventually led to an official investigation by the South African Ministry of Home Affairs.
Amid the escalating controversy, Chidimma chose to withdraw from the Miss South Africa pageant. However, she found a new opportunity by accepting an invitation to compete in the 2024 Miss Universe Nigeria competition.
This move allows her to reconnect with her Nigerian roots and showcase her talents on an international platform. Her decision to pivot to Miss Universe Nigeria highlights the complexities of identity in the global pageant world, especially as participants navigate dual nationalities and cultural expectations.
On Friday, the organizers of Miss Universe Nigeria officially introduced Chidimma as Miss Taraba State, contestant number 25, on their website. The announcement marks a new chapter in her pageant journey, as she steps forward to represent a different part of her heritage.
Despite the challenges she faced in South Africa, Chidimma is now set to compete on a new stage, bringing her resilience and determination to the forefront as she aims for the Miss Universe Nigeria crown.
