Chidinma Adetshina recounts how she felt on her first visit to Nigeria amid dual citizenship row

Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 winner Chidinma Adetshina has recounted how she felt on her first visit to Nigeria amid a dual citizenship row that nearly truncated her career.

Chidinma, who opened up when she was hosted by Dr Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) in Lagos, on Tuesday, said that she was nervous when she first visited Nigeria from South Africa.

The 23-year-old who described Nigerians as hospitable individuals and friendly said that she had a lot of mixed feelings when she arrived in Nigeria after spending 20 years away.

“I have been looking forward to coming to Nigeria; I have been telling my Dad and I told myself, this year, I don’t know what or how I need to be in Nigeria and am glad for this opportunity.

“And I remember before I arrived at the airport, I was so nervous, I came alone because my uncle was unable to come with me.

READ ALSO: Rejected in S’Africa, Miss Chidinma Adetshina bags Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 crown

“It’s been 20 years since I left Nigeria, I was anxious, scared, I had lots of mixed feelings. But before I met my family at the airport, there were lots of people around me, I felt welcomed and accepted, it was like a very good atmosphere to be in.

“And that was when I knew I was going to enjoy myself in Nigeria. I have been here for 10 days and it has been an amazing experience,” she said.

Chidinma also thanked Nigerians for their support and also promised to make Nigeria proud.

“I want to say thank you for the beautiful reception. Am so honoured to be sitting in front of you.

“I wear this crown with so much pride and I would make Nigeria proud as well,” she said.

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