In a historic moment for Nigerian beauty pageants, Danielle Adewusi, 25, has been crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2026 on Sunday.
TheNewsGuru reports that Adewusi, who represented Lagos State in the prestigious event, triumphed over 19 other talented contestants to secure the coveted Miss Universe crown.
The event took place at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, and was followed by weeks of camp activities, advocacy projects, talent showcases, and stage performances.
Speaking at the event, the newly crowned queen said, “I want young girls to know that they can achieve more, and still celebrate their cultural identity.”
Four things to know about Danielle Adewusi, the new Miss Universe Nigeria
1. She Is a Medical Doctor With Two Degrees:
Beyond her pageantry achievements, Adewusi has an impressive academic background. She earned her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree from King’s College London, along with a First-Class Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology.
2. She Inherited Her Mother’s Passion for Pageantry
Adewusi’s interest in pageantry has a family connection. Her mother, Tonia Okogbenin, was crowned Miss Intercontinental Nigeria in 1991.
3. She Founded the ‘Scrub the Stigma’ Initiative
Adewusi is also the founder of Scrub the Stigma, an advocacy initiative dedicated to improving awareness of women’s reproductive health and wellness.
Inspired by her clinical experience during rotations in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, she established the initiative to challenge misconceptions and encourage open conversations about reproductive health.
4. She Previously Competed in Miss Universe Great Britain
Her victory in Nigeria was not her first experience of competing for a major beauty title. Adewusi previously competed in Miss Universe Great Britain 2023, where she secured a place in the Top 5.
The experience gave her an opportunity to develop her pageantry skills and gain exposure to an international competition before returning to the stage in Nigeria.