9th August, 2024
By Oluwapelumi Oluwayemi
The organizers of Miss Universe Nigeria have extended an invitation to Chidimma Adetshina to join the 2024 pageant.
Chidimma, who recently faced controversy over her eligibility in the Miss South Africa competition, is a 23-year-old born in Soweto, South Africa, with Nigerian and Mozambican heritage.
Last month, after qualifying for the top 16 in the Miss South Africa pageant, debates about her nationality stirred viral social media attention.
Critics on X called for her disqualification, leading the South African Department of Home Affairs to investigate allegations of fraud and identity theft involving her mother.
As a result, Chidimma chose to withdraw from the Miss South Africa competition for the safety of her family.
In light of this, Miss Universe Nigeria has invited her to compete in their 2024 pageant.
The organizers expressed their belief in her potential, stating she would have a chance to represent her father’s native land on an international stage.
They encouraged Chidimma to consider the invitation and participate in a competition that celebrates Nigerian women’s strength, intelligence, and diversity.
The pageant officials are eager to assist her through the process if she accepts the invitation.
“We believe that your journey in the world of pageantry is far from over and that there are still numerous opportunities for you to showcase your talent, grace and beauty,” the statement reads.
“As a Nigerian by heritage, we would like to formally invite you to participate in the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 pageant.
“This is an opportunity to represent your father’s native land on an international stage, and we believe you would be an outstanding contender.
“We encourage you to consider this opportunity and take part in a competition that celebrates the strength, intelligence, and diversity of Nigerian women.
“Should you wish to participate, all you need to do is respond to this invitation, and we will be delighted to guide you through the next steps.
“We look forward to hearing from you and hope to see you continue your journey in pageantry with the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant.”
Chidimma was set to be among the finalists in the Miss South Africa grand finale scheduled for August 10, 2024, in Pretoria.
