Chidimma Adetshina, who holds dual citizenship in South Africa and Nigeria, experienced xenophobic backlash while attempting to participate in the Miss South Africa beauty pageant. She is now set to represent Nigeria at the upcoming Miss Universe contest.
Chidimma Adetshina crowned Miss Universe Nigeria in Lagos
Adetshina proudly embraces her dual heritage, expressing her pride in being both South African and Nigerian. (Image: Benson Ibeabuchi/AFP)
In a recent announcement, South Africa declared its intention to revoke the identification documents of Chidimma Adetshina, who is poised to represent Nigeria in the Miss Universe pageant.
This decision is part of an ongoing controversy surrounding Adetshina, who is of both South African and Nigerian descent.
Facing anti-foreigner sentiment in South Africa, Adetshina, born to a Nigerian father and a South African mother originally from Mozambique, encountered significant backlash when she attempted to compete in the Miss South Africa pageant. The 23-year-old was subjected to xenophobic attacks, with government officials questioning her South African identity. Consequently, she withdrew from the competition, citing concerns for her family’s safety and wellbeing.
The South African government has since launched an investigation into claims that her mother may have obtained South African citizenship through fraudulent means. Home Affairs Director General Tommy Makhode informed a parliamentary committee that Adetshina and her mother were given until Monday to justify their retention of national identification documents.
“We have not received any response, so the department will proceed with the withdrawal of those documents in accordance with the Identification Act,” Makhode stated.
Welcomed in Nigeria
South Africa and Nigeria, both significant economic players in Africa, have a long-standing rivalry that extends to sports, music, and political influence in the region.
Following her rejection in South Africa, Adetshina was invited to compete in the Miss Nigeria final, despite not having visited Nigeria in two decades. Organizers emphasized that this was an opportunity for her to “represent your father’s native land on an international stage.”
After winning the contest, Adetshina is now preparing to represent Nigeria in the Miss Universe competition scheduled for November.
“This journey has been challenging, but I am incredibly proud of myself and grateful for the love and support I’ve received,” Adetshina shared with AFP after her crowning in Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling commercial hub. “This has always been my dream, and I am thrilled to have another chance to achieve it.”
Source: jcg/wd (AFP, Reuters)
