By Maryanne Awuya
Following a fierce global contest at the 75th Miss World Festival in Nha Trang, Vietnam, Nigeria’s representative, Tamunosoye “Soye” Karibi-George, ended her quest for the global crown with an impressive Top 12 finish, solidifying her place among the world’s elite beauty queens.
Soye, who qualified for the Top 40 after securing the title of Miss World Africa Top Model 2026, advanced deep into the final stages of the competition, delivering Nigeria’s strongest showing on the international stage in recent years.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, praised the beauty queen’s performance, noting that her journey represented the best of Nigerian character.
“TamunoSoye, you made Nigeria proud,” Musawa said in a statement.
“From the very beginning to the final stage, you carried yourself with grace, confidence and excellence, representing our country beautifully on the world stage. What you have achieved at Miss World is a reflection of your talent, character and determination.”
Looking ahead to Soye’s return, Musawa added: “We look forward to welcoming you home and celebrating you. Keep shining, keep inspiring and keep making Nigeria proud.”
Also commending her impact, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, highlighted the inspiration Soye’s journey offered to young women across the nation and praised her advocacy work.
“Through Beyond Labels, Tamunosoye has used her voice to champion inclusion and opportunity for children with disabilities and special needs reminding us that every child deserves to be seen for their abilities, their dreams and their limitless potential,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated.
Addressing the 26-year-old delegate directly, the Minister added: “You gave young girls watching you a reason to believe that their dreams can take them further than they ever imagined.”
The minister said she showed them that they can be graceful and purposeful, ambitious and compassionate. You walked onto the world stage; you did not walk alone, and you certainly will not walk alone from here.”
Echoing similar sentiments, the National Director of Miss World Nigeria, Guy Murray-Bruce, emphasized that her legacy at the pageant transcends competitive placements.
“Beyond the rankings, Tamunosoye carried the Nigerian identity with grace, confidence and purpose,” Murray-Bruce said. “She may not have won the crown, but she reminded us that sometimes, the most memorable women do not need a crown to shine.”
Murray-Bruce also expressed gratitude for the collective effort behind her campaign
“On behalf of Silverbird Group and Miss World Nigeria, we extend our sincere appreciation to the Government of Nigeria, government ministries and agencies, corporate partners, institutions, media organisations, supporters, friends and well-wishers who stood behind our Queen throughout this journey.”
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