Tamunosoye Karibi-George Crowned Miss World Nigeria

By Babatunji Wusu| Tamunosoye Karibi-George, representing Bayelsa State, has been crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026 after emerging victorious at the pageant’s grand finale held in Lagos.

The 26-year-old beauty queen outshone 19 other finalists to claim the prestigious title during the event, which took place on Saturday at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel. Although she competed as Bayelsa State’s representative, Karibi-George is originally from Rivers State.

Her victory means she will 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.

The Miss World Nigeria 2026 competition was held under the theme “Pride, Power, and Purpose,” bringing together contestants from across the country to compete for the national crown.

Founder of the Silverbird Group and former senator, Ben Murray-Bruce, announced the winner on X and praised the new queen for her achievement and commitment to social impact.

“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.

Beyond her success in the pageant, Tamunosoye Karibi-George has gained recognition for her advocacy initiative, Beyond Labels, which supports children living with special needs. The programme promotes inclusion, dignity and empowerment while encouraging young people to pursue their dreams regardless of their circumstances.

Murray-Bruce described her as a woman whose purpose, intelligence and passion distinguished her throughout the competition. He also called on Nigerians to support her as she prepares to represent the country on the global stage.

Miss World Nigeria 2026 succeeds Joy Mojisola Raimi, who represented Nigeria at the previous edition of the international pageant in India and finished among the Top 20 contestants worldwide.