Miss Universe First Runner-Up Chidimma Adetshina Plans Nigeria Relocation Amid South African Identity Controversy
In a dramatic turn of events following her remarkable achievement as first runner-up at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant, Chidimma Adetshina has announced her intention to relocate to Nigeria. The 23-year-old beauty queen, who represented Nigeria and claimed the Miss Universe Africa and Oceania title, finished second to Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig at the prestigious event in Mexico.
From Miss South Africa Controversy to International Success
Adetshina’s journey to the Miss Universe stage has been marked by controversy. The law student withdrew from the Miss South Africa competition in August 2023 amid questions about her nationality. The situation escalated when South African authorities alleged that her mother had misappropriated a South African woman’s identity, leading to an ongoing police investigation.
“I have already decided that I want to relocate to Nigeria,” stated Adetshina, expressing uncertainty about her ability to return to South Africa. She is currently working with legal representatives to resolve the situation by year’s end.
Identity and Citizenship Challenges
The beauty queen faced significant challenges during her Miss South Africa participation, enduring persistent criticism from South Africans who questioned her citizenship due to her Nigerian name and heritage. The controversy deepened when South Africa’s home affairs department reportedly canceled her identity documents after she and her mother allegedly failed to justify their eligibility.
Despite these challenges, Adetshina, who was born in Soweto and claims South African-Mozambican heritage through her mother, maintains a diplomatic stance. “I don’t have any animosity towards South Africa,” she affirmed. “Because at the end of the day it is still a place that I call home, no matter how painful it is to say it.”
Looking Forward: A Pan-African Vision
As she embarks on her year-long journey with the Miss Universe organization, Adetshina remains committed to her law studies and harbors ambitious goals for continental unity. “I will have this opportunity to unite not only Nigeria and South Africa, but also the whole of Africa,” she declared, demonstrating her commitment to transcending national boundaries through her platform.
The beauty queen acknowledges the emotional toll of her journey, noting that she had suppressed her feelings to pursue her dreams. As she moves forward, Adetshina plans to prioritize her mental health while fulfilling her international duties as Miss Universe first runner-up.