Chidimma Adetshina, a 25-year-old Nigerian woman, was crowned Miss Universe South Africa in 2023. However, South Africans began questioning her citizenship, with some presiding over the contest arguing she is not representative of the country. Initially, Chidimma was considered a citizen of South Africa by birth, but the South Africa Home Office claimed her citizenship was a case of stolen identity. Chidimma's father, a Nigerian man who married a Mozambique woman, invited her to represent Taraba state in the Miss Universe Nigeria contest.
As the grand finale approached, South African social media users voted against Chidimma in favor of Ufa Dania, the first ever full-figured contestant for the history of Miss Universe Nigeria. Fan voting is a part of the decision-making process, and the top three contestants receive the highest number of fan votes to advance to the top 10. Ufa's popularity increased as South Africans and Facebook rallied support for her.
The Miss Universe contest is an international beauty contest held annually to celebrate young women from around the world, coming from all cultures, backgrounds, and religions. The contest empowers women by providing a platform for them to share their stories, showcase their talents, and advocate for causes close to their heart. The winner of the Miss Universe title serves as a global ambassador, working on humanitarian projects and promoting social causes.
Participants come from different countries, including Miss Universe Nigeria and Miss Universe South Africa, and compete for various segments, including personal statements, in-depth interviews, evening gowns, and swimwear.
