Meet Chidinma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina, Nigeria’s shining star in the beauty pageant world, born on June 6, 2001. This accomplished beauty queen claimed the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 title and went on to excel at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant in Mexico, earning the distinguished first runner-up position and dual honors as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, while setting a new benchmark for Nigeria’s highest placement in the prestigious competition.
Wiki
Full Name: Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina
Date of Birth: 6 June, 2001
Place of Birth: Soweto, South Africa
Origin: Nkanu West, Enugu
Nationality: Nigerian, South African
Profession: Model, Actress
Net Worth: $500,000
Early Life & Career
Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina was born in 2001 at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto, South Africa. She is the daughter of a Nigerian father of Igbo descent and a Mozambican mother, giving her a rich and diverse heritage. Her upbringing in Cape Town was shaped by her multicultural background, which played a significant role in her identity and aspirations.
Currently a law student, Chidimma’s academic pursuits reflect her passion for justice and equality. However, her family background has not been without controversy. Her mother has been accused of committing identity fraud in South Africa, an allegation that would later cast a shadow over Chidimma’s public endeavors.
In 2024, Chidimma entered the Miss South Africa pageant, seeking to represent the nation and its diversity on a global stage. However, her participation became the center of national controversy. Following an investigation by the South African Department of Home Affairs into her mother’s citizenship status, Chidimma withdrew from the competition, citing concerns for her safety and well-being. Preliminary findings from the investigation alleged that her mother had obtained South African citizenship in 2001 through fraudulent means, which called Chidimma’s eligibility into question.
Despite these challenges, Chidimma maintained her composure and garnered public support. Many South Africans viewed her as a symbol of the nation’s multicultural fabric, while others raised questions about her dual citizenship status and her eligibility to compete in the pageant.
Controversy
Chidimma Adetshina’s journey to represent South Africa on the Miss South Africa platform was marred by allegations of fraud, xenophobia, and public scrutiny. The controversy began when concerns were raised about her citizenship. Her dual nationality, stemming from her Nigerian and Mozambican heritage, triggered an investigation by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs. Preliminary evidence suggested irregularities in her mother’s acquisition of South African citizenship in 2001. These revelations led to calls for further action, with some political parties advocating for criminal charges.
The investigation into Chidimma’s background became a polarizing issue. While the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a South African far-left political party, publicly defended her and condemned xenophobia, other political groups, such as the African National Congress (ANC) and the Patriotic Alliance, called for thorough investigations into her nationality. The controversy intensified when a video surfaced online showing Chidimma celebrating her progress in the pageant with her Nigerian relatives, further fueling debates about her South African identity.
Despite the Miss South Africa organization maintaining that Chidimma met all eligibility criteria for the competition, the mounting public and political pressure forced her withdrawal. In October 2024, the Department of Home Affairs officially revoked her South African identity documents, citing irregularities in her mother’s citizenship application. This decision led to widespread backlash, with many accusing the government of victimizing Chidimma for circumstances beyond her control.
The controversy had far-reaching consequences, including international repercussions. The Puebla International Festival in Mexico withdrew invitations to South African panelists and guests, citing the undermining of justice, equality, and human dignity in the treatment of Chidimma. South Africa was subsequently removed as a featured country at the festival.
Aftermath
On August 31, 2024, Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina etched her name into history by winning the coveted title of “Miss Universe Nigeria 2024”. Representing Taraba State, she outshined 24 other contestants at the grand finale held at the prestigious Eko Hotels and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos. The glamorous event, broadcast live on GOtv and YouTube, captivated audiences across the nation as Adetshina claimed the crown with her charisma, poise, and grace.
Her victory at the national level earned her the honor of representing Nigeria at the “Miss Universe 2024” competition, held on November 16, 2024, at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City. Competing against contestants from 126 countries, Adetshina delivered a stellar performance and emerged as the “First Runner-Up”, marking Nigeria’s highest-ever placement in the history of the Miss Universe pageant.
The winner of the 2024 competition was Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig, while Mexico’s María Fernanda Beltrán secured the second runner-up position. Adetshina’s remarkable achievement was further recognized as she was crowned “Miss Universe Africa and Oceania”, awarded to the highest-ranking contestant from the African continent.
Her “First Runner-Up” package included an impressive $100,000 cash prize, a one-year lease on a luxury apartment in New York, and a stunning $3 million diamond-encrusted crown. Additionally, the recognition opened doors for her in the modeling and entertainment industries, connecting her with influential figures and opportunities to launch a successful career in showbiz.
On October 10, 2024 Chidimma Adetshina Wass appointed as the brand ambassador of Enugu State. The 23-year-old was named ambassador by the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, in an X post on Thursday.
Her appointment came after a warm homecoming on Tuesday in Enugu, where she was welcomed with banners, traditional performances, and celebrations.
Awards and Recognitions
Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina’s remarkable journey in the world of pageantry has earned her numerous accolades and recognition both locally and internationally. Her crowning achievement came in 2024 when she was named “Miss Universe Nigeria”, representing Taraba State in a highly competitive contest. This victory marked a significant milestone in her career and solidified her position as a rising star in global pageantry. Following this, Adetshina represented Nigeria at the “Miss Universe 2024” competition in Mexico City, where she achieved an extraordinary feat as the “First Runner-Up”—the highest placement ever recorded for Nigeria in the history of the competition. Additionally, she was awarded the title of “Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, celebrating her as the top-ranking contestant from the African continent.
Social Media
Chidimma Adetshina has become a prominent figure on social media, amassing a significant following across various platforms. Her Instagram account (@chichi_venessa) boasts over 218,000 followers, where she shares glimpses of her glamorous life, career highlights, and personal moments. On Twitter (@chichi_venessa), she has garnered a more modest yet engaged audience of over 4,000 followers.
Personal Life
While Chidimma Adetshina’s public life is defined by glamour and success, her personal life tells a story of resilience and self-discovery. In February 2024, she finalized her divorce, a decision she made to prioritize her happiness and individuality. Speaking candidly to “Sowetan Live Magazine”, Adetshina opened up about the challenges she faced in her marriage.
“I got divorced in February. We were not compatible because he had this ideology of what an African married woman is. I didn’t want to be in a position where I can’t go out, but had to clean, cook… that was just not for me because, as a society, we are way past that phase,” she shared.
Adetshina emphasized that her experiences over the past year have been a reflection of her true self. Despite societal expectations, she has embraced her independence and individuality.
She also revealed that she is a proud mother to her one-year-old son, whom she had out of wedlock. Balancing motherhood with her rising career, Adetshina continues to challenge traditional norms and redefine what it means to be a modern African woman.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Chidimma Adetshina’s net worth is estimated at approximately $500,000. Her earnings come from a combination of modeling contracts, endorsement deals, and her winnings from the *Miss Universe* competitions. With her growing influence and career opportunities, her financial success is expected to continue rising.
