Rita Odafe
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the head of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), has praised Chidimma Adetshina, the Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, for her remarkable determination.
She highlighted that Chidimma’s achievement in the Miss Universe 2024 pageant is a testament to her perseverance and hard work.
Despite finishing as the first runner-up in the 73rd Miss Universe Competition held in Mexico, Dabiri-Erewa recognized that Chidimma’s bravery, resolve, and support from Nigeria contributed significantly to her success, which also awarded her the title of Miss Africa and Oceania 2024.
In a congratulatory message from Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the Director of Media at NIDCOM, it was emphasized that Chidimma stayed on track and achieved her aspirations.
Dabiri-Erewa reflected on Chidimma’s earlier withdrawal from the Miss South Africa 2024 contest, where she was a finalist, and mentioned how Nigeria welcomed her back after her difficult experience in South Africa.
“Upon her return to Nigeria, she was warmly greeted at NIDCOM’s Lagos office, followed by a grand celebration at ‘The Temple’ in Victoria Island, where music icon Dbanj was present,”
Lauding Chidimma as intelligent and goal-oriented, she encouraged others to embody the pride of being Nigerian and to refrain from negativity towards their country.
The Miss Universe competition was recognized as one of the most exciting events in recent years, showcasing the grace, intellect, and talents of women worldwide.
Nigeria secured the second position, with Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, winning the coveted title against the former Miss Universe 2023, Sheynnis Palacios from Nicaragua.
It is important to note that Chidimma faced rejection from South Africa, which questioned her nationality, leading her to represent Taraba State and clinch the Miss Universe Nigeria title organized by the Silverbird group.
