Beyond the glitz and glamour, Chidimma Adetshina has become a symbol of what it means to challenge stereotypes and transcend borders.
By Abioye Damilare Samson
On August 21, 2024, I logged on to X, expecting a typical day on the timeline: viral memes, celebrity antics, and the usual trending debates. But when I checked the trending table, I saw Nigeria and South Africa, which immediately made me think of the familiar banter that often flares up whenever the two countries cross paths on social media—usually over music or football. But this time, the mood was totally different.
What I found was chaotic cyber attacks from each country. Screenshots of cancelled Uber and Bolt rides flooded the timeline, each post mocking the other. South Africans and Nigerians had apparently been pranking each other’s drivers, booking rides and sending them on pointless trips before cancelling.
As I dug deeper, it became clear that the flames of outrage were being fanned by something far more serious: the controversy surrounding Chidimma Adetshina, a South-African model with Nigerian ancestry, who had withdrawn from the Miss South Africa pageant.
But what could have caused her to leave the competition?
For Afrocritik, I dug deep into the reason behind her withdrawal from the South Africa pageant competition and how she later rose to become Miss Universe Nigeria and claimed the first runner-up spot at the global Miss Universe 2024 competition.
Why Chidimma Adetshina Walked Away from Miss South Africa
Ahead of Miss South Africa finals at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria, Chidimma Adetshina took the bold step of withdrawing from the Miss South Africa competition, a decision that reverberated across the continent.
For weeks, her Nigerian heritage had been at the centre of polarising debates, with critics questioning whether she fit the pageant’s vision of celebrating South African identity. This stemmed from an investigation into her mother by the Department of Home Affairs and her lineage as the daughter of a Nigerian father.
What started as scattered conversations online rapidly gained momentum and snowballed into a full-blown uproar, with xenophobic undertones shaping the conversation.
Adetshina, calm and poised even in the face of hostility, released a statement on her social media pages, explaining her decision and ended it on a note of solidarity. “Whoever wears the crown represents us all”, she wrote.
Her withdrawal was polarising and even caused a lot of debate and dividing opinions on the internet. While some lamented it as a lost opportunity to bridge cultural divides, others hailed her decision as a reminder of the challenges African unity faces amid lingering national tensions.
Chidimma Adetshina Becomes Miss Universe Nigeria
Adetshina’s story could have ended there, but destiny had other plans. Just a few days after stepping back from the South Africa model competition, the Silverbird Group—organisers of Miss Universe Nigeria—came knocking, inviting her to compete.
She arrived in Nigeria and represented Taraba state on the stage to win the Miss Universe Nigeria award crown after delivering an electing performance with her commanding presence.
In her acceptance speech, she said, “Let’s break down the barriers that divide us. Let’s foster a continent where every African can move freely without prejudice, pursue their dreams, and contribute to the growth and prosperity of our great continent”.
Her message was clear and straightforward: unity and freedom across borders are essential for the collective advancement of Africa.
Chidimma Adetshina’s Record-Breaking Moment at Miss Universe
After claiming the Miss Universe Nigeria crown, Chidimma Adetshina became the talk of the town—her story resonated deeply, making her everyone’s favourite. But with the victory came a more prominent stage: she was set to represent Nigeria at the global Miss Universe 2024 competition, the 73rd edition, held in Mexico.
On November 16th, Adetshina arrived with the weight of a nation’s hopes and didn’t disappoint. Contesting fiercely across every round, she showcased a level of poise and preparation that made her a standout.
When the results were in, Chidimma Adetshina took the coveted First Runner-Up spot, marking Nigeria’s highest-ever placement in Miss Universe history. While Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig claimed the crown, Adetshina’s achievement was a groundbreaking moment for Nigeria and Africa.
Chidimma Adetshina’s Journey and What It Means for Africa
Chidimma Adetshina’s journey is a case study of resilience and reinvention. Her ability to turn rejection into triumph illustrates the power of self-belief and the courage to forge a new path.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Chindima Adetshina has become a symbol of what it means to challenge stereotypes and transcend borders. Even when faced with bullying and insults, she stands firm, using her platform to champion African unity, gender equality, and cultural pride.
Her story is a reminder that beyond being a model, she is also a worthy role model for others coming after her. And in doing so, she has given countless young Africans the courage to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles.
Abioye Damilare is a music journalist and culture writer focused on the African entertainment Industry. Reading new publications and listening to music are two of his favourite pastimes when he is not writing. Connect with him on Twitter and IG: @Dreyschronicle
Cover photo credit: Marie Claire Nigeria