By Emeka Blast 
Miss Universe Nigeria 2025: Onyinyechi Basil Takes the Crown
Lagos, Nigeria – History was etched in the annals of Nigerian pageantry on Saturday, August 30, 2025, as Onyinyechi Basil, representing Anambra State, was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2025 at a dazzling grand finale held at the Balmoral Convention Center in Victoria Island, Lagos. The 25-year-old, born in Aba, Abia State, outshone 21 other contestants to claim the coveted title, succeeding Chidimma Adetshina, the 2024 winner and reigning Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.
The third edition of Miss Universe Nigeria (MUN) captivated audiences both in-person and online, with hosts Anthony Abraham and Victory Wilson guiding the night through electrifying segments of swimwear, traditional costume, evening wear, and a gripping question-and-answer round. Basil’s poise, articulate responses, and undeniable stage presence secured her victory in a close face-off with Miss Lagos, Damilola Bolarinde, who finished as first runner-up. Miss Bayelsa, Fortune Kurobo, took second runner-up, while Miss Ogun, Irene Ikediashi, claimed third. Miss Akwa Ibom, Idah Eno, rounded out the top five, earning the title of Miss Supranational Nigeria 2025.
Basil, who works with a leading South Korean conglomerate overseeing operations across West Africa, delivered a powerful message upon her crowning, saying, “I want young girls to know that they can achieve more, and still celebrate their cultural identity.” Her advocacy for better maternal healthcare, inspired by the personal loss of her younger brother due to inadequate care, resonated deeply, as noted by SilverbirdTV.
From an initial pool of 22 contestants representing Nigeria’s diverse states, only 10 advanced to the final stages, including Miss Delta (De-Blessing Asaboro), Miss Ekiti (Ezekiel Silver), Miss Oyo (Lagoke Funmike), Miss Imo (Chukwukereobi Chinaza), and Miss Ebonyi (Ugoaru Onuoha). The finale, which drew celebrities, dignitaries, and fans, generated massive buzz on social media, with clips of Basil’s crowning moment going viral. A post by @SilverbirdTV on X declared, “Onyinyechi Basil takes the crown! A dream come true for Miss Anambra! 👑 #MUN2025,” amassing thousands of likes.
Basil now assumes the role of Nigeria’s representative at the 74th Miss Universe pageant, scheduled for November 21, 2025, at the Impact Challenger Hall in Pak Kret, Thailand. She steps into the shoes of Adetshina, who placed first runner-up and was named Miss Universe Africa in 2024. Fans are already rallying behind Basil, with @NaijaBeautyFan tweeting, “Onyinyechi is Nigeria’s pride! Ready to shine in Thailand! 🇳🇬 #MissUniverse2025.”
The 2025 pageant, organized by the Silverbird Group, underscored its commitment to empowering young Nigerian women, with founder Senator Ben Murray-Bruce praising its evolution as a global platform, per SilverbirdTV. Basil’s victory, coupled with her advocacy for maternal healthcare, marks a historic moment for MUN, celebrating beauty, intelligence, and social impact. As Nigeria prepares to cheer her on the world stage, Basil’s journey promises to inspire a new generation.
