Tamunosoye Karibi-George, representing Bayelsa State, has been crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026.

The 26-year-old, from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, emerged winner among 20 finalists in a competition themed “Pride, Power, and Purpose.”

She was crowned on Saturday night at a grand finale held at the Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos.

She will represent Nigeria at the 73rd Miss World Festival, scheduled to hold in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from August 9 to September 5, 2026.

Silverbird Group founder and former lawmaker representing Bayelsa East, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, who announced and celebrated the win, described Karibi-George as “more than a queen.”

“WE HAVE A QUEEN! A new chapter begins. Please join us in celebrating TAMUNOSOYE KARIBI-GEORGE, representing Bayelsa State, as the newly crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026!” Murray-Bruce posted on X on Sunday.

He highlighted her advocacy work through the initiative Beyond Labels, which focuses on inclusion, dignity, and empowerment for children with special needs.

“More than a queen, Tamunosoye is a passionate advocate for change. Through her initiative, Beyond Labels, she champions inclusion, dignity, and empowerment for children with special needs, creating safe spaces where every child is encouraged to dream boldly and realise that their circumstances do not define their future.

“Her purpose, poise, intelligence, and passion shone brightly, earning her the honour of wearing the crown and carrying the hopes of a nation.”

The senator urged Nigerians to support her as she takes the national flag to the global stage.

“Now, the journey continues. Nigeria stands proudly behind you as you prepare to represent our great nation on the global stage at the Miss World Festival in Vietnam.

“Go forth and inspire the world. Go forth and make Nigeria proud.”

Miss World Nigeria, organised by the Silverbird Group, is one of Nigeria’s premier beauty pageants.

It selects the country’s representative for the international Miss World competition, which emphasises “Beauty with a Purpose,” encouraging contestants to pursue charitable projects alongside their platform work.

Karibi-George succeeds Joy Mojisola Raimi, Miss World Nigeria 2025, who represented Nigeria at the 72nd Miss World pageant in Hyderabad, India, where she reached the Top 20 and placed among the Top 5 from Africa. (Sunday PUNCH)