BY CLAIRE MOM
Hannatu Musawa, minister of art, culture, tourism and the creative economy, has congratulated Chidimma Adetshina for securing the first runner-up spot at the 2024 Miss Universe pageant.
The grand finale of the beauty pageant ended in Mexico City on Sunday morning with Adetshina making history as the first Nigerian woman to take the second spot.
Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, Miss Denmark, won the contest.
Adetshina’s path to Miss Universe was not without controversy. Born to a Nigerian father and Mozambican mother, she faced heavy criticism and withdrew from the Miss South Africa pageant due to her nationality.
However, Silverbird Group, organisers of Miss Universe Nigeria, invited her to participate, and she was crowned the pageant’s winner.
In a statement issued on Monday by Nneka Anibeze, Musawa’s special adviser on media and publicity, the minister said Chidinma’s remarkable feat is a testament to her “dedication, resilience, and passion for excellence”.
Musawa said Adetshina’s accomplishment not only brings pride to Nigeria but also inspires a generation of young women to strive for greatness.
“Chidimma’s achievement is a shining example of the creative and innovative spirit that defines our nation,” the minister said.
“She was focused and never gave up in her days of trial. We are proud to celebrate her success and tenacity, and we recognize the impact she has made on the global stage.
“Her commitment to empowering women and girls through education and advocacy aligns with our ministry’s vision for a vibrant and inclusive creative economy.”
Musawa also commended Chidimma for her “exceptional” representation of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and values.
The minister said her achievement serves as a catalyst for promoting tourism, cultural exchange, and international cooperation.
“Chidimma is a shining star and Nigeria’s pride. Nigerians are proud to celebrate her success and recognize the impact that she has made on the global stage,” she said.
“As we celebrate Chidimma’s success, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting and empowering creative talents, particularly women, to excel in their chosen fields.”
As first runner-up, Chidimma won $100,000 cash, a one-year lease on a luxury apartment in New York, a $3m diamond-encrusted crown.
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