Chidinma Onwe Adetshina, Nigeria’s pride, secured first runner-up at the 73rd Miss Universe finale in Mexico City. The crown went to Denmark’s Victoria Kjr Theilvig, bringing an exhilarating end to one of the most competitive pageants in recent memory.

The most beautiful woman in Africa.

Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina 🇳🇬, 2024 Miss Universe 1st Runner-up. pic.twitter.com/bc05VzilsG

— BOUNCE (@bouncenetworks) November 17, 2024

As the event reached its climax, Chidinma and Victoria stood side by side, radiating elegance and confidence. The official Miss Universe Instagram account captured the moment with the caption: “The final two! Nigeria and Denmark, two incredible women, one unforgettable moment.” Victoria succeeded Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, Miss Universe 2023. Despite finishing second, Chidinma captivated judges and fans with her grace and composure throughout the competition.

Chidinma gave the best answer tonight. What a star! 🇳🇬🇳🇬🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/KnlYq2dv8n

— ‘Tunde Omotoye (@TundeTASH) November 17, 2024

Her journey to the pageant, however, was far from smooth. Born to a Nigerian father and South African mother with Mozambican roots, she faced criticism during Miss South Africa 2024. Her eligibility to represent South Africa was questioned while her mother’s identity became a subject of scrutiny by the country’s home affairs.

I love how she went to the Miss Universe stage to prove herself to everyone and silence all that talk about nepotism. Congrats to her. ❤️

— Renike (@iamrenike) November 17, 2024

Faced with these challenges, Chidinma withdrew from Miss South Africa and chose to represent Taraba State in Miss Universe Nigeria. She won the title, demonstrating resilience and determination that made her journey to Mexico all the more remarkable. Interestingly, Mia le Roux, who took the Miss South Africa crown after Chidinma’s withdrawal, later opted out of Miss Universe due to health issues.

Chidinma’s success adds to Nigeria’s pageant legacy. In 2001, Agbani Darego became the first Black African to win Miss World at 18. She paved the way for more African women to make history.

The Miss Universe 2024 pageant also celebrated groundbreaking achievements by other African contestants. Khadja Omar became Somalia’s first-ever representative and the first hijabi contestant in the competition’s history. Logina Salah of Egypt made history as the first participant with vitiligo, promoting inclusivity and self-acceptance. Meanwhile, Mia le Roux of South Africa became the first deaf contestant to qualify, breaking yet another barrier in the world of pageantry.