Chidimma Adetshina, crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, has announced her intention to seek therapy following a wave of xenophobic abuse and a government investigation into her nationality. The 23-year-old, who was a finalist in the Miss South Africa pageant, faced scrutiny due to her Nigerian father and Mozambican mother, despite being a South African citizen.
Adetshina withdrew from the Miss South Africa contest last month, shortly after the Department of Home Affairs suggested her mother might have engaged in “identity theft” to acquire South African citizenship. Following this, Adetshina competed in and won the Miss Universe Nigeria title. However, she revealed that she had been “suppressing her emotions” throughout the ordeal.
“It’s just not a nice feeling,” Adetshina told BBC Pidgin, visibly emotional. “I’ve been avoiding it a lot, and only now is it starting to cloud me. It’s something I will work on and see a therapist because what has happened was really major.”
Born in Soweto, Adetshina emphasized that the Miss Universe Nigeria title was a “powerful moment” for her. She expressed gratitude for her victory but also acknowledged the controversy surrounding her entry into the competition. Some critics felt that her late entry into the pageant was unfair to other contestants who had participated longer.
“I understand where people are coming from,” Adetshina said. “But I also went through my own journey and had my fair share of the process.” She affirmed her dual identity, stating, “I still see myself proudly South African… I still see myself proudly Nigerian.”
Currently, Adetshina is extending her stay in Nigeria, a country she last visited as a child. She plans to explore more of Nigeria before heading to Mexico in November for the Miss Universe international competition.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s investigation into her nationality continues. The initial report from the Home Affairs Department noted that while her mother might have committed identity theft, Adetshina, as an infant at the time, could not have participated in these actions.
Reflecting on her challenging journey, Adetshina encouraged others to pursue their goals despite obstacles. “Set those goals for yourself,” she said. “It might seem too scary, but set them and always do everything in your power to make sure you achieve them.”