Chidimma Adetshina Receives Invitation To Compete In Miss Universe Nigeria 2024
The organisers of the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant have formally invited Chidimma Adetshina to participate in their 2024 competition.
Chidimma’s withdrawal from Miss South Aftrica pageant
This invitation comes after Adetshina’s withdrawal from the Miss South Africa pageant. It was prompted by immense backlash over questions surrounding her nationality.
The 23-year-old law student from Soweto, South Africa, made headlines when she announced her withdrawal from the Miss South Africa pageant. She cited concerns for her and her family’s safety and well-being.
Furthermore, this decision was made after a preliminary investigation by South Africa’s Home Affairs Department found that Adetshina’s mother may have committed “identity theft” to become a South African national.
Xenophobic backlash
The revelation of Adetshina’s Nigerian heritage on her father’s side started a social media debate. Some South Africans questioned whether she was truly deserving of representing their country on the Miss Universe stage. Additionally, a petition demanding her removal from the competition gathered over 14,000 signatures before it was taken down.
Miss Universe Nigeria’s invitation
In an official press release posted on the Miss Universe Nigeria Instagram account, the pageant organisers expressed their solidarity with Adetshina, acknowledging the “circumstances surrounding [her] withdrawal” and the “challenges she may be facing.”
“As a Nigerian by heritage, we would like to formally invite you to participate in the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 pageant,” the press release stated.
“This is an opportunity to represent your father’s native land on an international stage. And we believe you would be an outstanding contender.”
In addition, the invitation encouraged Adetshina to “consider this opportunity. And to take part in a competition that celebrates the strength, intelligence, and diversity of Nigerian women.” The organisers have assured that they will be “delighted to guide her through the next steps.” That is, if she accepts the offer.
This gesture from the Miss Universe Nigeria team is good news for Adetshina. She has faced a tumultuous experience in her home country.
Despite the pageant organisers in South Africa confirming her citizenship, the relentless backlash and “go-home” sentiment from some members of the public ultimately led her to withdraw from the competition.
READ ALSO: Puebla Literature Festival Withdraws South African Guests Over Chidimma Adetshina Controversy
The Miss Universe Nigeria pageant’s invitation is an opportunity for Adetshina to continue her journey in the world of pageantry. Also, it is a chance for her to represent her Nigerian heritage on the world stage.
Finally, the world awaits to see if Chidimma Adetshina will accept the invitation and embark on a new chapter as a beauty pageant queen.
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