In a move that’s got everyone talking, Chidimma Adetshina has accepted an invitation to compete in the 2024 Miss Universe Nigeria pageant.
- Chidimma Adetshina accepts a last-minute invitation to Miss Universe Nigeria 2024.
- Social media erupts with divided opinions on her sudden entry.
- The beauty queen withdrew from Miss South Africa amid a citizenship scandal.
Chidimma Adetshina accepts Miss Universe Nigeria invite
Adetshina, who recently shared her excitement in a video statement, said:
“I have received an invitation from the Silverbird Group, who are the organisers of the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant, to participate in the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024. I say this with great excitement because I have decided to accept the invitation.”
This unexpected development comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding her citizenship status, which led to her withdrawal from the South African pageant under pressure.
The invitation was extended after the Miss Universe Nigeria organisation closely followed the fallout from her withdrawal from Miss South Africa.
In a statement addressed to Adetshina, they acknowledged the challenges she faced and expressed their belief that she still had much to offer in the world of pageantry.
“We believe that your journey in the world of pageantry is far from over, and that there are still numerous opportunities for you to showcase your talent, grace, and beauty,” the letter from the Silverbird Group read.
Social media in tatters over the move
Adetshina’s decision to accept the invitation has sent shockwaves through social media, with opinions sharply divided.
On one hand, supporters are praising her resilience and determination to continue her pageantry career despite the controversy that forced her out of Miss South Africa.
On the other hand, critics are questioning the fairness of her sudden inclusion in Miss Universe Nigeria, especially considering the competition had already finalised its Top 24 contestants.
The director of Miss Universe Nigeria, Guy Murray-Bruce, defended the decision, emphasising that Adetshina’s unique situation warranted special consideration.
“As a good citizen of Nigeria, Silverbird Group reached out to her to ask, ‘would you be so kind to participate in Miss Universe Nigeria since you’re half Nigerian?’”
Murray-Bruce explained, noting that while the competition was already underway, they felt it was crucial to involve Adetshina due to the circumstances.
Adetshina’s recent withdrawal from Miss South Africa was shrouded in controversy.
She cited safety concerns for her family as the primary reason for stepping down, saying:
“After much careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw myself from the competition for the safety and well-being of my family and me.”
However, her exit coincided with an ongoing investigation by the Department of Home Affairs into her citizenship status.
Preliminary findings suggested that her mother may have committed fraud over two decades ago, raising questions about Adetshina’s eligibility to compete in Miss South Africa in the first place.
