Mitchel Ihezue of Imo state has been chosen to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe contest in 2023.
The 72nd edition of the beauty pageant will feature candidates from 90 different countries.
Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Cameroon, and Mauritius are among the African countries fighting for the renowned title.
Ghana and the Seychelles, on the other hand, will not compete this year.
The eligibility standards allowed married women and women with children to compete.
For the first time in 66 years, the pageant became more inclusive.
Personal statements, interviews, evening gowns, and swimwear competitions will be among the difficulties at the event.
Ihezue was named the ‘Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria’ in 2017.
In the same year, she represented Nigeria in the ‘Miss World’ beauty pageant, where she won the title of ‘Miss World Top Model 2017’.
She was crowned the winner of the Miss Universe Nigeria 2023 competition in September.
She advocates for women’s empowerment and rehabilitation through the Nigerian Prince CN Ukachukwu ministry.
She holds a master’s degree in business administration from Lagos Business School and the IESEG School of Management Paris.
Ihezue describes herself as someone who is blessed, proud of her family and enjoys painting.
“I am most proud of my family in my life. If I could have any superpower, it would be healing. I am inspired by my past, present and future,” she said.
“If I had to describe myself in one word, it would be blessed. I am happiest when I am painting. I cannot live without apple juice.”
Miss Universe 2023 will be held on November 18 at the National Gymnasium in San Salvador, El Salvador.
The 71st Miss Universe, R’Bonney Gabriel of the United States, will crown her successor at the conclusion of the tournament.
