Imo’s Mitchel Ihezue to represent Nigeria at Miss Universe 2023

Mitchel Ihezue of Imo state is set to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe 2023 pageant. 

The 72nd edition of the beauty pageant will bring together contestants from 90 countries.

African countries competing for the prestigious crown include Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Cameroon, and Mauritius, among others.

Ghana and the Seychelles will, however, not participate in this year’s competition.

The eligibility criteria allowed contestants who are married and women with children to participate.

This made the pageant more inclusive, for the first time in 66 years.

The event will feature a series of challenges, including personal statements, interviews, evening gowns and swimwear competitions.

Ihezue, who is representing Nigeria, was crowned the ‘Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria’ in 2017.

She represented Nigeria at the ‘Miss World’ beauty pageant in the same year and earned the title of ‘Miss World Top Model 2017’ in the global pageant.

In September, she was crowned the winner of the Miss Universe Nigeria 2023 pageant.

She is an advocate for women’s empowerment and rehabilitation through the Prince CN Ukachukwu ministry of Nigeria.

She has a joint master’s degree in business administration from Lagos Business School and IESEG School of Management Paris, France.

Ihezue describes herself as someone who is blessed, proud of her family and enjoys painting.

“I am most proud of my family in my life. If I could have any superpower, it would be healing. I am inspired by my past, present and future,” she said.

“If I had to describe myself in one word, it would be blessed. I am happiest when I am painting. I cannot live without apple juice.”

Miss Universe 2023 will be held at the National Gymnasium in San Salvador, El Salvador on November 18.

R’Bonney Gabriel of the United States, the 71st Miss Universe, will crown her successor at the end of the event.