Miss Universe 2024 first runner-up, Chidimma Adetshina, has announced plans to step away from pageantry to focus on personal growth and career development.

Tribune Online reports that the beauty queen achieved the historic feat of becoming the first Nigerian to place as the first runner-up at Miss Universe after emerging second at the recently concluded Miss Universe 2024 in Mexico.

In an interview with BBC Pidgin, the Nigerian model explained her decision to take a break from pageantry, citing her desire to prioritise education and explore new opportunities in runway modelling and acting.

“I want to put pageantry aside for now and focus more on my education and establishing who Chidimma is. I want to delve more into runway modelling, acting, and explore many other areas. There are so many things I would like to try and see where my potential can take me.”

Chidimma’s journey to Miss Universe has not been without controversy. She previously entered the Miss South Africa pageant but withdrew following criticism of her nationality and allegations from South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs concerning her mother’s documents.

Subsequently, she was invited to participate in Miss Universe Nigeria, where she emerged as the winner, triumphing over 24 other contestants.

Addressing the controversy surrounding her withdrawal from Miss South Africa, she assured her supporters that she would share more details once she fully understands the situation.

She said, “People are really interested in the story. And like I said, I haven’t gone home yet, I haven’t heard anything, and I haven’t sat down with a lawyer or anything. So I can’t just talk about things,” she explained.

“Once I get everything sorted out, I will definitely open up and give people clarity on the matter,” she added. (Nigerian Tribune)