The long-anticipated 45th Miss Nigeria beauty pageant, held on Thursday, December 19, 2024, in the heart of Lagos, concluded with a dazzling display of talent, grace, and purpose.
Doris Esiokhayamhe Ogah, a lawyer and model from the South-South region, clinched the coveted title after a fiercely contested competition.
Ogah emerged victorious from a pool of 45 talented contestants, with 20 contestants advancing to the semi-finals and 10 making it to the finals.
The grand event, which took place at the elegant Victoria Island, was themed “Beyond Beauty: Reigning Together as Queens,” emphasising the celebration of not just physical beauty, but also intelligence, leadership, and social responsibility.
The pageant was not just a contest of beauty but also a platform to showcase the power of women to make a meaningful impact in society.
Outgoing Miss Nigeria, Shatu Garko, extended a heartfelt congratulations to Ogah, passing on the torch with words of encouragement.
Garko urged Ogah to use her new title to make a difference, saying, “You have the opportunity to do great things, to help, and to lead.”
This year’s competition was a momentous occasion for both the contestants and the organisers.
The judging panel, led by entertainment mogul Mo Abudu, was filled with notable figures from the Nigerian entertainment industry.
The panel featured renowned designer Mai Atafo, celebrated actress Kate Henshaw, and the acclaimed photographer Kelechi Amadi-Obi.
Other judges included actress Ini Edo, popular TV host Michelle Dede, and former Miss Nigeria, Ezinne Akudo Anyaoha.
The competition was fierce, with contestants from all corners of Nigeria vying for the prestigious title.
Each contestant brought their unique flair and charm to the stage, impressing the judges with their poise, intelligence, and confidence.
However, Ogah’s combination of beauty and brains made her stand out from the crowd.
Her intelligence, articulate responses, and determination to champion women’s rights and youth empowerment won her the judges’ approval.
Ogah’s victory marks an important moment for the South-South region, which has often been underrepresented in major beauty pageants.
As Miss Nigeria, Ogah now has the opportunity to serve as a role model for young women across the country.
In her speech, Ogah dedicated her victory to her family and her community, expressing her desire to use her platform to advocate for the less privileged.
She said, “This is not just a crown for me, it’s for the women and young people who need a voice. I want to inspire change and help create opportunities for those who are often overlooked.”
The pageant was a celebration of Nigerian beauty, culture, and strength, attracting a host of notable personalities and media attention.
In the lead-up to the event, the organisers had been working tirelessly to ensure that the competition was not just a display of physical beauty, but a celebration of intellect and social impact.
The theme, “Beyond Beauty,” was a reminder that true queens are those who use their influence for good.
As Miss Nigeria, Ogah will now embark on a journey of advocacy and public service, focusing on causes that matter to the people.
Her reign will be an opportunity to shine a light on pressing issues such as women’s rights, education, and poverty alleviation.
With her legal background and modelling experience, Ogah is well-equipped to handle the responsibilities that come with being the face of Miss Nigeria.
Her passion for social justice and youth empowerment aligns with the pageant’s vision of creating positive change in Nigerian society.
This year’s pageant also highlighted the importance of mentorship and the role that industry leaders play in shaping the future of young women.
The presence of figures like Mo Abudu, who is a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, inspired many young contestants and attendees.
Abudu herself took to the stage to congratulate Ogah, stating, “This is your time to shine, Doris. You are not just a beauty queen; you are a queen of purpose.”
Indeed, the 45th Miss Nigeria pageant was not just a celebration of beauty but a call to action for young women to step up and lead with grace, integrity, and purpose.
As Ogah steps into her new role, she is poised to make a lasting impact on the country and the world, following in the footsteps of the incredible women who have held the title before her.
The beauty pageant industry in Nigeria has long been an arena for empowering women and challenging societal norms, and this year’s Miss Nigeria event was no exception.
For Ogah, the journey has only just begun.
As she takes on the responsibilities of the title, she will no doubt continue to inspire and uplift those around her, as she seeks to leave a legacy of positive change.
Her victory is a testament to the strength and resilience of Nigerian women, who continue to break barriers and lead with conviction.
For those who watched the pageant unfold, it was a reminder that beauty goes beyond the surface – it is about the heart, the mind, and the desire to make a difference.
