Chidimma Adetshina, the South African-born model who made waves at the Miss Universe competition in Mexico, may not have clinched the coveted crown, but her remarkable first runner up has certainly kept her in the spotlight. The 26-year-old, who was named Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, walked away with a dazzling array of prizes, including a cash prize of $100,000 (R1.7 million), a luxury New York apartment lease, and a diamond-encrusted crown worth $3 million.
Adetshina’s performance at the pageant, held over the weekend, has not only solidified her place in the Miss Universe history books but also ignited a wave of reactions on social media — some in celebration, others in controversy. While the model’s supporters are praising her accomplishments, her victory has become the focal point of a heated online debate, particularly between South African and Nigerian users.
Adetshina’s prizes from the competition are nothing short of extraordinary. In addition to the cash award of $100,000, the model secured a one-year lease on a luxury apartment in New York and a diamond-encrusted crown valued at $3 million. The prize package also includes access to exclusive industry connections that will likely propel her career in the competitive world of modelling and entertainment. These rewards are designed to elevate Adetshina’s professional journey, with New York serving as a springboard for international visibility and opportunities.
Despite the impressive haul of prizes, reactions to Adetshina’s victory have been far from unanimous. A number of Nigerian social media users have used her success to poke fun at South Africa, casting the pageant as a triumph for Adetshina’s home continent rather than a personal victory. Comments on Twitter quickly turned both mocking and playful, with some Nigerians taking jabs at South Africans, claiming the victory was more of a consolation than a celebration.
One Twitter user, @_AYO234, commented: “They won’t look after their country where they are second-class citizens, it’s Nigerians that’s their problem.” Others, such as @realFejiro, seemed to suggest that South Africans would be left in the wake of Adetshina’s success, writing: “Oh my days! All I see is more tears. LMAO SA people gonna be alright.”
Not all reactions were critical, however. Some fans rallied behind Adetshina, appreciating her grace under pressure and celebrating her accomplishments. @BishopPOEvang shared an enthusiastic remark: “Omo I have never seen a clapback in this manner before. You cooked bro with your pink boxers.”
Whether or not her victory sparks a new rivalry between the two nations, there is no doubt that Adetshina’s future is looking bright. With an impressive prize package, a growing fanbase, and global exposure, the first runner-up could soon become a household name in fashion, entertainment, and beyond.
