BY LUCY EZELIORA
MISS Nigeria 2024, Chidimma Adetshina, graced the stage at Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 in an enchanting traditional outfit that exuded elegance and history.
She showcased her Nigerian heritage with a cultural attire that was both captivating and meaningful. As she spoke about her roots, she expressed what the outfit represented to her, revealing that she wore it during the Miss Universe dinner night and emphasised the beauty of cultural diversity.
Chidimma’s ensemble was a stunning fusion of traditional Nigerian elements with a modern twist. The flowing garment featured bold patterns in a colour palette of black, gold, red, and earth tones, evoking a deep sense of cultural richness and history. The design incorporated symbolic motifs and abstract artwork, likely inspired by African heritage, creating a visually striking narrative.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the outfit was the elaborate headpiece, designed as a radiant crown with large golden afro combs fanned out in a halo shape. These combs were connected by black and white beads, highlighting the significance of natural hair and traditional African adornment. Paired with a choker made of large cream-coloured beads, the headpiece added an air of regality, paying homage to ancient African queens.
The outfit was more than just a fashion choice; it was a bold cultural statement, celebrating African beauty, resilience, and royalty. The design beautifully blended artistry with heritage, making it the perfect attire for a prestigious event like Miss Universe.
At Miss Universe, different days are dedicated to different tasks, and on November 14, 2024, the beauty queens were assigned the task of representing their nations in enchanting cultural attire. Chidimma took this responsibility to heart, showcasing her cultural heritage with pride and confidence.
Miss Universe is no small feat—it’s the global stage where beauty, intelligence, talent, and purpose come together. This year’s competition saw 90 contestants from around the world, but Chidimma made sure all eyes were on her as she proudly represented her country with a smile that said, “I carry my country with pride.”
However, Chidimma’s journey to this stage wasn’t without drama. She had initially been disqualified from Miss South Africa due to issues surrounding her identity. Despite this setback, the Miss Nigeria pageant organisers welcomed her, and she went on to win the title. Along the way, Chidimma also faced xenophobic hostility from South African locals, which led her to delete her X account.
In an unexpected twist, Miss South Africa, Mia Le Roux, withdrew from the competition due to health concerns, sending shockwaves through the internet. The news sparked a range of reactions, with some suggesting that Chidimma’s success was divinely orchestrated, while others sympathised with Miss South Africa’s health issues.
With her head held high and her cultural crown shining, Chidimma proved that grace and strength make the ultimate beauty statement, leaving a lasting impression on the Miss Universe stage.
