Rivers-born Tamunosoye Karibi-George wins Miss World Nigeria 2026 crown

Tamunosoye Karibi-George, who represented Bayelsa State, has been crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026 after emerging winner at the pageant’s grand finale in Lagos.

The 26-year-old defeated 19 other contestants to secure the national title during the event held on Saturday at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel.

Despite competing as Bayelsa State’s representative, Karibi-George is originally from Rivers State.

Her victory earns her the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the next Miss World competition.

Her victory earns her the right to represent Nigeria at the 73rd Miss World Festival, which will be held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from August 9 to September 5, 2026.

This year’s competition, themed “Pride, Power, and Purpose,” featured contestants from across the country competing for the coveted crown.

Founder of the Silverbird Group and former senator, Ben Murray-Bruce, announced the winner in a post on X on Sunday and congratulated the new queen.

“WE HAVE A QUEEN! A new chapter begins. Please join us in celebrating TAMUNOSOYE KARIBI-GEORGE, representing Bayelsa State, as the newly crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026!” Murray-Bruce wrote.

He also commended Karibi-George’s advocacy work through her initiative, Beyond Labels, which focuses on supporting children living with special needs.

“More than a queen, Tamunosoye is a passionate advocate for change. Through her initiative, Beyond Labels, she champions inclusion, dignity, and empowerment for children with special needs, creating safe spaces where every child is encouraged to dream boldly and realise that their circumstances do not define their future.

“Her purpose, poise, intelligence, and passion shone brightly, earning her the honour of wearing the crown and carrying the hopes of a nation.”

Murray-Bruce urged Nigerians to rally behind the new queen as she prepares for the international contest.

“Now, the journey continues. Nigeria stands proudly behind you as you prepare to represent our great nation on the global stage at the Miss World Festival in Vietnam.

“Go forth and inspire the world. Go forth and make Nigeria proud.”

Miss World Nigeria, organised annually by the Silverbird Group, remains the country’s official selection platform for the global Miss World competition, with a strong focus on humanitarian projects under the “Beauty with a Purpose” initiative.

Karibi-George succeeds Joy Mojisola Raimi, who represented Nigeria at the 72nd edition of Miss World in Hyderabad, India, where she finished among the Top 20 contestants and ranked in the Top Five from Africa.

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