Tamunosoye Karibi-George has been crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026 after emerging victorious over 19 other contestants at the pageant’s grand finale held on Saturday in Lagos.
The 26-year-old beauty queen, who competed as Bayelsa State’s representative despite being an indigene of Rivers State, secured the national title at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel.
Her win earns her the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the 73rd edition of the Miss World Festival, scheduled to take place in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from August 9 to September 5, 2026.
The competition, themed “Pride, Power, and Purpose,” featured contestants from across the country vying for the coveted crown.
Founder of the Silverbird Group and former senator, Ben Murray-Bruce, announced the result on X, praising Karibi-George’s achievement and advocacy efforts.
“WE HAVE A QUEEN! A new chapter begins. Please join us in celebrating TAMUNOSOYE KARIBI-GEORGE, representing Bayelsa State, as the newly crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026!” he wrote.
Murray-Bruce highlighted her initiative, Beyond Labels, which focuses on promoting inclusion and opportunities for children with special needs.
“More than a queen, Tamunosoye is a passionate advocate for change. Through her initiative, Beyond Labels, she champions inclusion, dignity, and empowerment for children with special needs, creating safe spaces where every child is encouraged to dream boldly and realise that their circumstances do not define their future.
“Her purpose, poise, intelligence, and passion shone brightly, earning her the honour of wearing the crown and carrying the hopes of a nation.”
He also encouraged Nigerians to support the new titleholder as she prepares for the global competition.
“Now, the journey continues. Nigeria stands proudly behind you as you prepare to represent our great nation on the global stage at the Miss World Festival in Vietnam.
“Go forth and inspire the world. Go forth and make Nigeria proud.”
Organised annually by the Silverbird Group, Miss World Nigeria serves as the country’s official pathway to the global pageant and places strong emphasis on humanitarian projects through the “Beauty with a Purpose” initiative.
Karibi-George succeeds Joy Mojisola Raimi, who represented Nigeria at the 72nd Miss World competition in Hyderabad, India, finishing among the Top 20 contestants globally and the Top Five representatives from Africa.