Building on its success in 2023, the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant have announced the 2024 edition.
Already anxieties are high following the announcement of Chidinma Adetshina, Former Miss South Africa contestant, of her intention to participate in the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 beauty pageant.
In a video message shared on X.com by Guy Murray-Bruce, National Director of Miss Universe Nigeria, on Wednesday, Adetshina expressed her gratitude to her supporters while sharing the news of her decision to compete for the coveted title.
The Miss Universe Nigeria pageant grand finale is going to take place, August 31, 2024 at the Eko Convention Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The contestants would be in Camp at the Festival Hotel, Festac where they will go through rigorous rehearsals and trainings.
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Speaking during a press conference at Silverbird Gallery, Murray-Bruce disclosed that this year’s Miss Universe Nigeria would be the second edition at the same time, the 38th edition of Silverbird hosting beauty pageant since1986.
According to the National Director, Miss Universe Nigeria is very diverse and inclusive now as the show is now open for married women, single women and divorced ladies.
He disclosed that the Miss Universe Nigeria winner last year, Ugochi Ihezue Ukachukwu is now married.
“In the past, we used to accept only girls who are between the ages of 18 to 28 but now it’s open to ladies who are 18 and above.
“We are very diverse at Miss Universe Nigeria. We welcome all women, irrespective of height and weight. We are not going to discriminate.
“The criteria is that you must look good for your age. We are proud to have the first married woman to be a beauty queen in the history of beauty pageant in Nigeria. She also happens to be the first Miss Universe Nigeria,” Murray-Bruce said.
He hinted that this year’s Miss Universe Nigeria has 25 delegates, including Chidimma Adetshina, a 2024 Miss South Africa finalist who withdrew from the contest after being trolled for her Nigerian heritage.
He disclosed that this year’s winner will receive ₦10 million in cash and other prizes, underscoring the pageant’s dedication to empowering women.
The winner of Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 will represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico this November, he said.
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Additionally, he mentioned that the runner-up will have the opportunity to participate in the Miss Supranational pageant.
Also speaking during the press conference, Ugochi Ihezue Nwachukwu, the outgoing queen shared her delight and readiness to crown the next Miss Universe Nigeria.
Nwachukwu, who has become an inspiring figure, announced an exciting partnership with the Miss Universe Nigeria team.
She revealed her commitment to providing sponsorships for contestants who perform well in the build-up to the event, further supporting their journey in the pageant.
She also took the opportunity to encourage the delegates to show support for one another throughout the competition.
Ugochi expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the participating brands for their role in promoting and sustaining the culture of pageantry in Nigeria.
Arthur Ngwube, Brand Manager of Silverbird Group, introduced the official theme for this year’s Miss Universe Nigeria, as ‘Digital Divas.’
He said this theme reflects the increasing importance of digital presence and influence in today’s world, encouraging the delegates to embrace technology, social media, and digital platforms as they compete for the crown.
Anthony Abraham, Camp Coordinator Camp Coordinator, provided insights into the activities planned for the
delegates during their one-week stay at Festival Hotel Festac.
These activities, he said are designed to challenge and develop the contestants in various areas:
Pitch for Business Ideas: Delegates will present innovative business ideas, fostering entrepreneurial skills and creativity.
Fashion Show: This event will highlight the creativity and style of fashion brands, giving delegates the opportunity to showcase their elegance and fashion sense.
Tea Party: A sophisticated social event aimed at promoting networking and building relationships among the delegates and stakeholders.
These activities are designed to ensure that the delegates are not only prepared for the pageant but also equipped with skills that will serve them well in their future endeavors.
Voting Process
It has been announced that the voting process has officially begun, allowing audiences to cast their votes for their favorite contestant as many times as they wish.
Voting will remain open until the eve of the event, August 30, 2024. This interactive process aims to engage the public in the selection of the next Miss Universe Nigeria.
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Addressing the South African Controversy
During the press conference, Guy Murray-Bruce also addressed an ongoing incident in South Africa involving a contestant, Chidima Adetshina, who withdrew from the Miss South Africa
pageant over nationality issues, sparking international controversy.
Her inclusion in the pageant adds a unique dimension to this year’s event, reflecting the pageant’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
The 2024 Miss Universe Nigeria has a line up of sponsors who not only supporting the event from start to finish but are also are remarkable engaging the girls both in camp and grand finale.
They are, Lush Hair, Checkers Custard, Henkel (Go2B Styling Glue) , Nutrify and Enchanteur Fragrance who Shared their excitement about adding an element of elegance and charm to the pageant.
