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Ikenna Ngere
Guest
In a heartfelt celebration, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State welcomed the reigning Miss Universe Nigeria, Chidimma Onwe Adetsina, back to her homeland on Thursday.
The governor appointed Miss Adetsina as the state’s brand ambassador, emphasizing her resilience and determination as shining examples of the Enugu spirit.
Adetsina, a native of Amurri in Nkanu West Local Government Area, was warmly received at the Government House in Enugu, where she was accompanied by her father, Mr. Okechukwu Onwe.
Praising her achievements, Governor Mbah noted that Adetsina’s journey demonstrated the power of determination, adding that Enugu State is immensely proud of her accomplishments.
“I am very delighted to congratulate and welcome you to your homeland. Enugu State has played a consequential role in the history of this nation. So, you should really be proud of your heritage and we are equally proud to have you as a daughter of Enugu State.
“Your story is inspiring. You could see that despite all attempts to malign and discourage you, you demonstrated that you are a true daughter of Enugu State. You overcame those challenges with the grit and resilience the people of Enugu State are known for.
“With the height and the feat you have attained today, you are able to act as major influence to our young people, girls in particular. We are going to look at how you could engage some of our young people, share your experience, what you have been through, and how you got to where you are today. Sharing that will be quite inspiring and encouraging,” Mbah stated.
Governor Mbah highlighted his administration’s focus on education, with 33% of the state budget dedicated to it, viewing this investment as a way to empower young people to reach their potential.
He assured Adetsina of the unwavering support of Enugu’s citizens as she prepares to represent Nigeria in the international Miss Universe competition in Mexico.
“We are obsessed with investment we make in our youths, which is why it is a state where 33 per cent of our budget goes to education. That is because we believe that the true wealth of any nation or indeed any state lies in the quality and standard of their human resources.
“As you go into the next stage of the competition and career, you are going to carry our flag. And as you do that, you can count on our support and commitment to your success,” he affirmed.
In response, Miss Adetsina expressed her gratitude to the people and government of Enugu and Nigeria for the warmth and encouragement.
She commended Governor Mbah’s dedication to education and pledged her support in mentoring and inspiring young people as an ambassador for the state.
“It has been a lovely experience coming to Nigeria. I feel accepted and loved. I also want to use the opportunity to commend you on your great works.
“As a woman, who is really passionate about education, it is really an honour to have someone contribute to the education system for the betterment of the people and also for better tomorrow,” she stated.
Reflecting on her journey, Adetsina recounted how she had initially competed in Miss South Africa but withdrew amid backlash due to her Nigerian heritage.
Following her withdrawal, she received an invitation to compete for Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 through Silverbird, which led to her crowning.
“They said I am not South Africa enough because my name is Chidimma; and in the final week of the competition, I had to withdraw for my safety and my family because the backlash was too much for me.
“After my withdrawal, I received an invitation from Sliverbird, and I accepted that invitation to come and compete for Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 and I was crowned.
“I am really grateful because it was the opportunity for me to come back home to reclaim my heritage. I felt the love and I felt accepted. Nigeria picked me up when I was on my knees and I am really grateful.
“I really do feel that my story is a very powerful one, not only in Nigeria, but all over the world. A lot of youths can resonate with my story and they can learn from my journey,” she said.
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