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| Governor Peter Mbah and Chidimma Onwe-Adetsina (Credit: Nnamani Arinze Darlington, X) |
During the reception at the Government House, Mbah acknowledged Onwe-Adetsina, a native of Amurri in Nkanu West LGA, and her father, Mr. Okechukwu Onwe. He praised her determination, highlighting that young individuals can achieve their aspirations through perseverance.
A statement from the governor's media office noted that Mbah emphasized Onwe-Adetsina's tenacity as a reflection of the inherent qualities of the people of Enugu State.
Mbah expressed, “It is with great pleasure that I congratulate and welcome you back to your roots. Enugu State has significantly contributed to the history of our nation, and you should take pride in your heritage, just as we take pride in having you as our daughter.
“Your journey is truly inspiring. Despite facing challenges and negativity, you have shown that you embody the spirit of Enugu State. You have navigated those obstacles with the resilience and determination characteristic of our people.
“Your achievements position you as a powerful role model for our youth, especially young girls. We will explore ways for you to engage with our young people, sharing your experiences and the journey that led you to this point. Your story will undoubtedly inspire and motivate them.”
He also mentioned that his administration's focus on education aims to empower the youth to reach their full potential, assuring Miss Onwe-Adetsina of the state's support and goodwill as she prepares for the international Miss Universe competition in Mexico.
We are deeply committed to investing in our youth, which is reflected in the allocation of 33 percent of our budget to education. This commitment stems from our belief that the true wealth of any nation or state is found in the quality and caliber of its human resources.
"As you advance to the next phase of the competition and your career, you will be representing us. You can rely on our unwavering support and dedication to your success," he remarked.
Miss Onwe-Adetsina expressed her gratitude to the government and people of Enugu and Nigeria for their warm reception and affection. She praised Mbah for his focus on education and promised to collaborate with the state to mentor and inspire the youth in her role as a brand ambassador.
"My experience in Nigeria has been wonderful. I feel embraced and valued. I also want to take this moment to commend you for your outstanding efforts.
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| Governor Peter Mbah and Chidimma Onwe-Adetsina (Credit: Nnamani Arinze Darlington, X) |
"As a woman who is deeply passionate about education, it is a privilege to witness someone actively contributing to the education system for the benefit of the community and for a brighter future," Onwe-Adetsina remarked.
Chidimma shared that despite residing in South Africa, she had to withdraw from the Miss South Africa competition due to feelings of exclusion and the controversy surrounding her participation, only to be embraced by Nigeria. She expressed her willingness to serve as a source of inspiration for the youth, particularly young women.
Onwe-Adetsina stated, "I was told I didn't fit the South African mold because my name is Chidimma; ultimately, I had to step back in the final week of the competition for my safety and that of my family, as the backlash became overwhelming."
“After my withdrawal, I received an invitation from Sliverbird, and I accepted that invitation to come and compete for Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, and I was crowned.
“I am really grateful because it was the opportunity for me to come back home to reclaim my heritage. I felt the love, and I felt accepted. Nigeria picked me up when I was on my knees, and I am really grateful.
“I really do feel that my story is a very powerful one, not only in Nigeria but all over the world. A lot of youths can resonate with my story and they can learn from my journey,” she said.
In a conversation with reporters at the Government House, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, expressed her belief that Miss Chidimma would succeed in Mexico and be crowned Miss Universe.