Danielle Adewusi is crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2026 after defeating 19 delegates in Lagos, earning the chance to represent Nigeria in Mexico

Danielle Fadeke Adewusi, representing Lagos State, was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2026 at the grand finale in Lagos on Saturday, September 27, 2026, emerging ahead of 19 other delegates to secure the national title and the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico.

Also read: Hamzat, Kola Adesina, Liakouris to Headline Real Talk With Kike @7

The finale was held at the Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, where Adewusi succeeded Onyinyechi Basil of Anambra State, who held the Miss Universe Nigeria title in 2025.

Adewusi’s victory brings the Lagos representative into the international spotlight, with the newly crowned queen scheduled to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico in November.

As part of her prize package, Adewusi will receive the N10 million grand prize alongside other endorsements associated with the title.

The 2026 competition brought together 20 delegates from across Nigeria, with contestants participating in several weeks of camp activities, advocacy challenges, mentorship sessions and preliminary competitions before the final night.

The competition also produced new representatives for other international pageant platforms.

Melissa Angelica Toghan, representing Delta State, was crowned Miss Supranational Nigeria 2027 and will represent Nigeria at the Miss Supranational pageant.

Anita Osikweme Osikhena of Edo State finished as First Runner-up, while Mya Jones of Cross River State was named Second Runner-up.

Ajaja Oluwafunmibi Joseph of Ekiti State completed the top four as Third Runner-up.

Adewusi’s crowning marks the beginning of a new chapter in her pageant journey, with her next major assignment taking her beyond Nigeria’s borders.

Her preparation for the Miss Universe competition will now shift towards the international stage, where she will compete alongside representatives from other countries.

The Miss Universe Nigeria organisers said the platform is designed to promote more than physical appearance, placing emphasis on beauty, purpose, leadership and advocacy.

The 2026 edition reflected that broader approach through its focus on mentorship, advocacy and personal development alongside the traditional pageant competitions.

For Adewusi, the national title now comes with the responsibility of carrying Nigeria’s representation to Mexico later this year.

Also read: Hamzat, Kola Adesina, Liakouris to Headline Real Talk With Kike @7

Her victory also makes her the latest Nigerian titleholder to take the country’s pageant tradition to an international audience, with attention now turning to her preparations for the November competition.