Following a highly publicized withdrawal from the Miss South Africa contest, precipitated by protracted controversy and intense questioning regarding her national affiliation, Chidimma Adetshina has demonstrated remarkable fortitude and perseverance.
Her ultimate triumph in the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant on Saturday bears eloquent testimony to her unyielding spirit and dedication to her craft.
“This crown represents more than just beauty; it’s a call for unity,” she said.
Subsequent to the highly publicized controversy surrounding her eligibility to participate in the Miss South Africa contest, Chidimma Adetshina received an invitation to partake in the esteemed Miss Universe Nigeria competition, thereby presenting her with a fresh opportunity to showcase her exceptional qualities and talents.
On August 8, Chidimma announced her withdrawal from the Miss South Africa competition, citing safety and the well-being of herself and that of her family members.
Chidimma’s withdrawal from the competition was announced in a statement she personally signed and posted on her Instagram page amid the continued controversies surrounding her nationality ignited by the South African authorities, despite organisers’ certification of her qualification.
In the statement seen by SaharaReporters, Chidimma said, “I would like to start off by thanking everyone who has stood beside me right from the start of my Miss South Africa journey. I’m really grateful for all the love and support I have been shown.
“Being part of the Miss South Africa 2024 competition has been an amazing journey; however, after much careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw myself from the competition for the safety and wellbeing of my family and I.
“With the support of the Miss South Africa Organisation, I leave with a heart full of gratitude for this amazing experience.
“I would like to take this opportunity to wish my fellow finalists all of the best for the remainder of the competition. Whoever wears the crown represents us all.”
Born in Soweto, South Africa to a Nigerian father and a mother who is of Mozambican descent, Chidimma’s participation in the South African competition and her rise to become a finalist in the competition were a subject of controversy for some time as many South Africans objected to her participation, citing that she is not truly a South African.
Social media attacks targeted her Nigerian heritage despite her being born in South Africa and meeting all competition requirements.
Later, the South African government said Chidimma’s mother may have been involved in identity theft.
The development regarding her mother was contained in a circular issued by the country’s Department of Home Affairs dated August 7, 2024.
Chidimma became a key figure in South Africa’s xenophobia debate and national identity discussions after making it to the Top 30 and becoming a finalist in the Miss SA competition.
By winning Miss Universe Nigeria on Saturday, Chidimma is set to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe competition in November.
At the global event, she will compete others from around the world including Mia le Roux, who won the South African version after Chidimma withdrew from the competition.