Miss SA finalist Chidimma Adetshina, whose citizenship is under investigation by Home Affairs.
- Chidimma Adetshina, Miss Universe Nigeria, addressed concerns about her pageant journey and nationality.
- She withdrew from Miss SA due to backlash and later won Miss Universe Nigeria.
- Adetshina emphasised her hard work and dedication despite legal issues surrounding her mother’s identity.
Reigning Miss Universe Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina, addressed the concerns of those who believed she bypassed necessary procedures to reach the pageant finals.
The 23-year-old withdrew from the Miss SA pageant in August due to backlash about her nationality. She later headed to Nigeria to participate in the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant, where she won the title.
READ | Chidimma Adetshina to represent Nigeria at Miss Universe in November
In an interview with Arise 360, she said she took the opportunity as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“A lot of people felt like it was a pity win, and I don’t think it was. I feel like I really worked hard. Coming from the Miss SA journey and going through the whole experience, It might have been a slight difference compared to everybody else, but I feel like if you look at the journey that we’ve all been through, I feel really had the same experience that they did,” Adetshina said.
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She joined the competition in Nigeria late after the Department of Home Affairs found evidence suggesting that the person it had on record as Adetshina’s mother may have committed fraud and identity theft.
“I really avoid the questions because it is a legal matter. I do not have the acts around the matter, and what I can say is that I was not running away from all of that. I knew I had a dream to fulfill, but I’m aware of the matter however not fully aware of what’s going on, but what I can speak on is that I know I did not steal anyone’s identity. I’m still obviously waiting for the whole conclusion on the whole case and then moving forward I will know what exactly to say.”
After being crowned, she said it was a dream come true and was deeply honoured.
“I want to dedicate this crown to God Almighty, who has been my strength through every trial and triumph. Without His grace, I wouldn’t be standing here today. I am forever grateful,” she wrote in an Instagram post.
She continued: “As I accept this honour, I want to share a vision that burns deeply within me, a vision of African unity and peaceful coexistence! Let’s break down the barriers that divide us.
READ MORE | ‘Forever grateful’: Miss Universe Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina on journey from controversy to crown