Chidimma Adetshina, a pageant hopeful, was forced to withdraw from Miss South Africa following a controversy over her nationality. She has now accepted an invitation to participate in Miss Universe Nigeria.

In a video posted to her Instagram, the 23-year-old expressed her excitement about competing in “Africa’s most prestigious beauty pageant,” smiling brightly. Adetshina initially participated in this year’s Miss South Africa but withdrew after facing xenophobic backlash. Despite holding South African citizenship, her eligibility was questioned due to her father’s Nigerian heritage and her mother’s Mozambican roots.

The Miss South Africa organizers raised concerns that Adetshina’s mother may have committed “identity fraud” to obtain South African nationality. Fearing for her family’s safety, Adetshina made the “difficult decision” to leave the competition last Thursday.

In response, Miss Universe Nigeria extended an invitation to Adetshina, emphasizing that her “journey in the world of pageantry is far from over.” They also highlighted that she would have the opportunity to “represent her father’s native land on the international stage.” However, it remains unclear if Adetshina holds Nigerian citizenship.

The winner of Miss Universe Nigeria will go on to represent the country at the prestigious Miss Universe competition. Meanwhile, South Africa’s Home Affairs department continues to investigate the situation, seeking legal advice on the implications of the alleged fraudulent activity on Adetshina’s citizenship status.

The Miss South Africa competition took place last Saturday, with Mia le Roux making history as the first deaf woman to win the crown. If Adetshina wins Miss Universe Nigeria

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