Chidimma Adetshina has expressed heartfelt gratitude to Nigeria and Africa for their unwavering support after being crowned first runner-up at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant in Mexico.

Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, claimed the title of Miss Universe, while Chidimma was honored as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.

The 23-year-old’s path to Miss Universe was marked by challenges, including controversy over her citizenship. Chidimma faced trolling and xenophobic attacks during her time competing in the 2024 Miss South Africa competition, due to her Nigerian heritage.

Though born and raised in South Africa, Chidimma’s mother is from Mozambique, and her father is Nigerian.

She ultimately withdrew from the Miss South Africa pageant in August after allegations from the South African Home Affairs regarding her parents’ alleged involvement in identity fraud to secure her South African citizenship.

On Instagram, Chidimma shared her emotional journey, thanking Nigeria for being a pillar of support when she was ready to give up.

“To Nigeria: Thank you is not enough for all the support you’ve shown. You picked me up when I was at my lowest,” she wrote. “I’ve never opened up much, but I was ready to give up on my life, and you became my strength. On days I never wanted to fight, you gave me the strength to fight. I’m so grateful for each and every one of you for walking this journey with me.”

She also expressed her gratitude to Africa for their solidarity and encouragement.

“To Africa: Thank you for showing your love and support. As much as I represented Nigeria, Africa fought for me. My voice, my story touched many and brought us together,” she said. “This journey has taught me the power of Unity. I want us to live in a society where we can all accept and celebrate one another. This is not the end but the beginning of my journey.”