Chidinma Adetshina, who made history earlier this year by winning Miss Universe Nigeria after being rejected by South Africa, continued her remarkable journey by finishing as the first runner-up in the 2024 Miss Universe pageant.
Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, was crowned as the 2024 Miss Universe during a glamorous event held in Mexico on Saturday night. Theilvig triumphed over 124 contestants from around the globe to win the title at the 73rd edition of the pageant.
Theilvig succeeds Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, who held the title of Miss Universe in 2023. This year’s Miss Universe competition stood out for its emphasis on inclusivity, featuring 18 mothers among the contestants, as well as debut appearances from countries such as Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Moldova, and Somalia.
The competition started with a record-breaking 125 entrants and saw the number of semifinalists increase from 20 to 30.
After the swimsuit parade, the group was narrowed to 12 contestants, who then advanced to the evening gown segment. The final five contestants were selected from this group, representing Nigeria, Denmark, Thailand, Mexico, and Venezuela.
In the final stages, the contestants underwent two rounds of questions and a final parade before the winner was announced. Mexico, Thailand, and Venezuela took third, fourth, and fifth places, respectively.
As the new Miss Universe, Theilvig will not only wear the coveted crown but will also embark on a global tour of 30 countries. She will also receive a year’s supply of cosmetics and jewelry, and for the first time in Miss Universe history, the winner will host a travel show.
Chidinma Adetshina, Nigeria’s representative at the 73rd Miss Universe competition, expressed her excitement and pride after finishing as the first runner-up at the prestigious pageant held in Mexico on Sunday.
In an interview shared on X (formerly Twitter) by the Miss Universe Nigeria organisation, Adetshina said, “I’m so excited. I don’t have words to describe what I’m feeling right now, but I’m so proud of myself, and I just made history!”
Her achievement came after fierce competition among 126 contestants from around the world, including 18 African nations. Adetshina’s exceptional performance and grace reportedly earned her widespread admiration from judges and audiences alike.
Adetshina’s journey to the Miss Universe stage was not without its challenges.
Earlier this year, she withdrew from the Miss South Africa 2024 competition, where she had advanced to the final stage, due to a controversy surrounding her nationality.
However, this setback did not deter her from pursuing her pageant dreams. Shortly after, she received an invitation to compete in Miss Universe Nigeria, where she emerged as the winner, representing Taraba State.
Nigerians and admirers worldwide are celebrating Miss Universe Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina, for her remarkable achievement as the first runner-up at the just-concluded Miss Universe 2024 pageant.
The final moments of the prestigious event at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City saw an electrifying face-off between Nigeria and Denmark, as the two women stood poised to claim the crown.
READ ALSO: Miss South Africa Withdraws from Miss Universe 2024 Due to Health Concerns
Though Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, ultimately won the title, Adetshina’s grace, intelligence, and poise captivated hearts worldwide, earning her accolades across social media and beyond.
Prominent figures have also joined the wave of congratulations.
Ben Murray-Bruce, in a post on X, praised Adetshina’s stellar performance, saying, “Congratulations to Chidimma Adetshina, our Miss Universe Nigeria, for emerging as the 1st Runner-Up at Miss Universe 2024. You have made us all proud. You’re a star!”
Social media activist Rinu Oduala highlighted the inspirational impact of Adetshina’s journey, adding, “You are an inspiration to every girl child out there.”
Others echoed similar sentiments. Social media user @blakboii2 declared, “You are and will still be a queen regardless,” while @OmegaXDreams celebrated her moving speech during the pageant, stating, “This 15-second speech is powerful, so proud of her!”
Chidimma’s journey to the global stage resonated with many, including Ovie, who reflected on her unique story: “The rejected stone has become the cornerstone! Rejected by South Africa. Embraced by Nigeria. Chidimma Adetshina’s story is one that will be told for years to come,” they wrote.
Celebrating her as a symbol of national pride, @bigHotbaby1 added, “Your grace, intelligence, and beauty have truly shone on the global stage. This incredible achievement is a testament to your hard work and dedication. Wishing you continued success in all your future endeavors. Proudly Naija!”
Chidimma Adetshina’s journey to the Miss Universe stage has inspired many, and her achievement as the first runner-up serves as a testament to her resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to her dreams.
