The top 18 finalists for this year’s Miss Nigeria beauty pageant have been unveiled, as preparations are in top gear to crown the 44th queen.
The unveiling cocktail took place at the KIA Showroom in Lagos and had representatives of the press, corporate Nigeria and members of the entertainment industry including Osas Ighodaro, Uti Nwachukwu, Denrele Edun, Alex Unusual, Anto Lecky, Dianne Russet, Mike Edwards, IK Onyema and others.
Guests were treated to sumptuous nibbles and champagne at the showroom amid lots of fun, glitz and glamour. The 18 finalists had an interactive session with members of the press where they shared their goals, aspirations and plans if they emerged victoriously and won the prestigious title.
All the finalists were impressed with their articulate and precise mission to use the Miss Nigeria organisation to empower the nation and women beyond beauty.
Speaking on the selection of the 18 finalists, the pageant’s current Creative Director, a former Miss Nigeria (2013) herself, Ezinne Akudo, said, “This year’s selection has been quite tasking, because of the sheer volume of entries. However, it has been very rewarding. Beyond their looks, every single one of these incredible ladies brings something unique to the table and we can’t wait to see which of them wears the crown as the 44th Miss Nigeria.”
Set up in 1957 with the motto, Empowering Women Beyond Beauty, Miss Nigeria is a yearly beauty pageant that showcases the positive attributes of Nigerian women. The winner portrays exemplary qualities and serves as a role model for young women in the country.
Selected from different states across Nigeria, the top 18 contestants for the 44th edition have proven to be the most diverse and inclusive finalist group of any pageant competition in the history of Nigeria.
According to the organisers, this is a well-thought-out move that continues to cement the Miss Nigeria legacy as more than a beauty pageant but a platform for the empowerment and advancement of today’s young Nigerian woman.
The grand finale will hold on Friday, December 17, 2021, at Landmark Convention Centre and the winner walking away with N10 million, a brand new car, a year of residency in a luxury apartment and lucrative brand ambassadorship opportunities.
