Adetshina makes history as first runner-up at Miss Universe 2024

Abdullateef Fowewe

In a thrilling climax to the fiercely contested Miss Universe 2024 pageant, Chidimma Adetshina of Nigeria made history by securing the coveted position of first runner-up.

The event, held at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, saw Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark crowned as the new Miss Universe, succeeding Nicaragua’s Sheynnis Palacios, who had held the title since 2023.

This year’s pageant marked its 73rd edition, drawing 126 contestants from around the globe, with strong representation from African nations, including Nigeria, Angola, and Egypt.

After making it to the top 30, she continued to impress the judges and viewers, ultimately earning a spot in the top five and securing her place as one of the final two contenders.

Just months before the Miss Universe competition, she made headlines by withdrawing from the Miss South Africa 2024 pageant, after some controversy surrounding her ties to the country.

Despite the setback, Adetshina’s resilience shone through, as she went on to win the Miss Universe Nigeria title, representing Taraba State on the global stage.