Bayelsa Representative Wins National Title
Tamunosoye Karibi-George, representing Bayelsa State, has emerged as Miss World Nigeria 2026.
The 26-year-old beauty queen defeated 19 other finalists to claim the crown at the pageant’s grand finale in Lagos.
The event took place at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, where contestants from across the country competed for the coveted title.
Although she represented Bayelsa State, Karibi-George is originally from Rivers State.
Victory Secures Miss World Ticket
Following her victory, Karibi-George earned the right to represent Nigeria at the 73rd Miss World Festival.
The international competition will hold in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from August 9 to September 5, 2026.
This year’s pageant adopted the theme, “Pride, Power, and Purpose,” which highlighted leadership, confidence, and social impact.
As a result, contestants showcased not only beauty but also purpose-driven initiatives.
Ben Murray-Bruce Celebrates New Queen
Meanwhile, founder of the Silverbird Group and former senator, Ben Murray-Bruce, announced the winner on X.
He congratulated Karibi-George and praised her remarkable performance throughout the competition.
According to him, her intelligence, poise, and dedication to service distinguished her from other contestants.
Furthermore, he described her as a strong ambassador capable of representing Nigeria on the global stage.
Advocacy Initiative Earns Recognition
Beyond the crown, Karibi-George received recognition for her advocacy project, Beyond Labels.
The initiative focuses on supporting children living with special needs.
Through the programme, she promotes inclusion, dignity, and empowerment for vulnerable children.
In addition, the project encourages young people to pursue their dreams regardless of personal challenges.
Murray-Bruce noted that her commitment to social change reflects the values of the Miss World platform.
Nigeria Rallies Behind Its Representative
As preparations for the global contest begin, Murray-Bruce urged Nigerians to support the new queen.
He expressed confidence that she would make the country proud at the international event.
Consequently, attention now shifts to Vietnam, where Karibi-George will compete against contestants from around the world.
Miss World Nigeria remains the country’s official platform for selecting representatives for the global pageant.
Moreover, the competition continues to promote humanitarian service through the Beauty With a Purpose initiative.
Karibi-George succeeds Joy Mojisola Raimi, who represented Nigeria at the 72nd Miss World competition in India.
Notably, Raimi finished among the Top 20 contestants globally and ranked among the Top Five representatives from Africa.
