By Christian Agadibe
Hundreds of excited, fun-seeking Nigerians thronged the venue of the 13th edition of the Mr and Miss Nigeria International Pageant held in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital recently.
The event was a remarkable celebration of Nigerian culture, beauty, and diversity, as contestants from across the country competed for the coveted titles of the pageant organised by Brendance and Crusader Limited.
The epic grand finale showcased dazzling performances, breathtaking costumes, and an unparalleled display of grace and talent, glamour and excellence. It was a night to remember as the contestants took to the stage with poise, embodying the pageant’s theme, “Traditions United.”
After a rigorous competition marked exacting standard of evaluation of the contestants, Ohaja Joseph Chibunna from Abia State emerged as Mr Nigeria International International 2024 while Giwa Steve Greatness from Ondo State was crowned Miss Nigeria International 2024
Commenting on the event, Chief Executive of Brendance and Crusader Limited, Ambassador Brendan Nsikak, thanked the Akwa Ibom State government for the interest and passion it showed in hosting the pageant in furtherance of the effort to promote and project the state a preferred tourism destination
Explaining the rationale for choosing Uyo, he said: “I am an Akwa-Ibomite and I haven’t visited recently even when I relocated outside the country and came back, I had engagements in Osun, Ekiti and Lagos which have been the centre of it all.
So, my partner, Popcaw of MATv, New York, USA and I decided to take bring the pageant to Uyo. We have been thinking of a state that we needed to explore in terms of eco-tourism and when we talk about ecotourism. Naturally, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Bayelsa, Adamawa, Ekiti, Plateau and Bauchi. So, we settled on Akwa Ibom as first choice, give fun seekers in my state world class entertainment.”
He added: “The success of the event would not have been possible without the invaluable support of the Akwa Ibom State government. The unwavering commitment and hospitality we received helped make the event a resounding success.
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“We are deeply grateful for their partnership and their alignment with the pageant’s vision of promoting Nigerian culture and youth empowerment in line with the ARISE Agenda of Governor Pastor Umoh Eno.
“We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to all our esteemed sponsors and partners, whose contributions were instrumental in creating a truly memorable and world-class event. Their generosity and support have not only elevated the stature of the pageant but have also reinforced the importance of collaboration in bringing Nigerian talent to the global stage.”
The winners of the competition will embark on a year-long journey, serving as ambassadors for various causes and platforms that promote Nigerian culture, tourism, and global representation. They will also have the opportunity to compete in international pageants, further elevating the Nigerian presence on the global stage.
The success of the Mr. and Miss Nigeria International Pageant 2024 is a testament to the tireless efforts of Brendance and Crusader Limited, who have continuously set the standard for beauty pageants in Nigeria and beyond.
Under the direction of Nsikak, the pageant has become a leading platform for discovering talent, fostering cultural exchange, and promoting the rich heritage of Nigeria.
