Bayelsa’s Tamunosoye Karibi-George named Miss World Nigeria 2026

Tamunosoye Karibi-George, representing Bayelsa State, has been crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026 after winning the national title at the pageant’s grand finale in Lagos.

The 26‑year‑old beauty queen outperformed 19 other finalists to secure the crown during the event held on Saturday at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel.

Although she represented Bayelsa State in the competition, Karibi-George is originally from Rivers State.

Her victory grants her the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the 73rd Miss World Festival, scheduled to take place in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from August 9 to September 5, 2026.

This year’s competition, themed “Pride, Power, and Purpose,” saw contestants from across the country vie for the coveted title.

Ben Murray‑Bruce, founder of the Silverbird Group and former senator, 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 praised Karibi‑George’s advocacy work through her initiative, Beyond Labels, which supports 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.

Vanguard News

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