Nigerian beauty queen Chidimma Adetshina, who recently made history as the first runner-up at the 2024 Miss Universe pageant, has announced her decision to step away from pageantry.
In a recent interview with Silverbird TV, Chidimma opened up about the challenges and emotional toll she endured throughout her pageant journey.
“Finishing in the top two at Miss Universe is still unbelievable to me,” she shared. “Honestly, I’m done. Pageantry was a deeply traumatic experience. There were moments when I nearly gave up during the competition. I want to focus on myself, rediscover who I am, and pursue my education.”
Chidimma’s decision comes after facing criticism and public scrutiny, particularly from some South Africans who questioned her nationality. Amid the backlash, she withdrew from Miss South Africa and represented Nigeria, where she first gained recognition by winning the Miss Nigeria title.
Her impressive achievements include being crowned Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, and despite her success, she has chosen to leave the pageant world behind and relocate to Nigeria to start a new chapter.