Chidimma Adetshina, who was subjected to a barrage of xenophobic attacks during her attempt to compete in the Miss South Africa pageant, is now poised to represent Nigeria in the Miss Universe competition this week. The 23-year-old law student, born in Soweto to a Nigerian father, withdrew from the South African contest last month citing concerns for her family's safety amid a surge of anti-foreigner sentiment.
The controversy escalated online and involved government officials, with allegations that her mother may have fraudulently used a South African identity. However, Nigeria's Miss Universe organizers have extended their support to Adetshina. Guy Murray-Bruce, the founder of Nigeria's Miss Universe, emphasized the need for unity across Africa, stating, "We shouldn't be fighting with one another."
Adetshina, who met her fellow contestants in Lagos, acknowledged the challenges she faced. The other 24 participants warmly welcomed her, highlighting the supportive and inclusive nature of the beauty pageant. Lucille Oputa, representing Abuja, expressed that beauty contests should embody love and unity.
Chioma Ogbonna, a dual national representing Plateau State, and Esther Gabriel, Miss Ekiti, both voiced their solidarity, emphasizing the shared humanity across different backgrounds. Ufa Dania, Miss Kwara, who has faced online harassment herself, sees the pageant as a platform for women's empowerment.
Adetshina, proud of her South African and Nigerian heritage, has six days to familiarize herself with the customs of Taraba State, which she will represent in the contest.
