Following her withdrawal from the Miss South Africa pageant, Chidimma Adetshina has accepted the invitation to take part in the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant.
Adetshina was a trending topic on social media with speculation on her nationality, and eligibility for the Miss SA pageant being questioned. As more questions and grievances were raised on the topic, an investigation was launched.
Preliminary findings of the Home Affairs Department found that Adetshina’s citizenship in South Africa may have been fraudulently obtained. This is because her mother’s identity may have been stolen.
Adetshina subsequently withdrew from the competition on 8 August.
READ MORE: Chidimma Adetshina withdraws from Miss SA
A day later, the National Director of Miss Universe Nigeria shared a statement inviting her to participate in its 2024 pageant. The statement, signed by Guy Murray-Bruce read that because Adetshina is “Nigerian by heritage”, the West African pageant would be an opportunity to represent her father’s native land.
“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.”
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Having accepted the invitation to participate on Wednesday, Miss Universe Nigeria says Adetshina will represent the Taraba State in the competition.
In her acceptance note on social media, Adetshina thanked all those who supported her and says she’s excited to participate in “Africa’s most prestigious beauty pageant”.
“I understand the responsibilities and expectations that come with this title and I am so excited to embark on this journey.”
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Citizenship investigation
The investigation into Adetshina’s citizenship is still ongoing, with the Home Affairs Department requesting space to conclude its probe.
In its last update on 8 August the department noted that it would not be commenting on the matter, or its investigation, until it announces the outcome.
“[O]ur team is hard a work to establish the full set of facts and committed to communicating those facts in a transparent manner at the appropriate time.”
