The curtain has fallen on the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, and while the crown has gone to Miss Mexico, Nigeria’s representative, Onyi Basil, is leaving Thailand with something she values just as highly: gratitude, sisterhood, and an unshakeable sense of purpose.
In a deeply emotional post-pageant reflection, the Nigerian queen opened her heart to her nation and her fans, offering a message that was less about the competition’s end and more about a new beginning.
“Looking back on my time at Miss Universe, I feel nothing but gratitude for the honor of standing on that global stage representing Nigeria,” Basil wrote. Her words paint a picture of a woman who approached the contest not just as a beauty queen, but as an ambassador. “I poured my whole heart into this journey, showing up with intention and giving everything I had to represent my country with pride, grace, and authenticity.”
A Journey of Intentionality
From the moment she departed Nigeria for Thailand, Basil’s campaign was defined by a striking elegance and strategic visibility. Her preliminary performance was a masterclass in poise, and her interactions with fellow contestants highlighted her role as a diplomat of Nigerian culture.
In her remarks, she emphasized the transformative power of the experience: “This experience taught me so much, and I had the privilege of meeting some of the most inspiring women from around the world — women who reminded me of the power of passion, purpose, and sisterhood.”
This sentiment of sisterhood stands in stark contrast to the online storms that brewed around the finale.
The Finale Controversy: A Crown for Mexico, A Heart for Côte d’Ivoire
While Onyi Basil focused on gratitude, the global pageant community was embroiled in a heated debate. The crowning of Miss Mexico, Fernanda Beltrán, sparked controversy, particularly among fans who felt that Miss Côte d’Ivoire, Olivia Yace, was the rightful winner. Yace, who finished as the 4th runner-up, was a massive crowd favorite, celebrated for her regal bearing and intellectual depth. The dispute highlighted the intense, often subjective nature of pageant judging, but it also underscored the unified support African queens received this year.
“Wrapped in Armor”: A Tribute to Nigeria
Basil’s most touching words were reserved for her supporters back home. Acknowledging the fervor of Nigerian fans, she described their support as a protective force.
“To my country, my fans, my family, and every single person who believed in me — thank you. Your support wrapped around me like armor from the first day to the last. Your messages, your prayers, your cheers… they meant everything.”
Her conclusion was a promise, not a goodbye. “This chapter may be complete, but my journey is far from over, and I’m so excited for everything that comes next.”
Basil may not have brought home the Miss Universe crown. Still, she succeeded in a different, vital mission: she represented Nigeria with unblemished dignity, proving that the true essence of a queen lies in her character, her gratitude, and her unwavering connection to her people.
The final results of the Miss Universe 2025 competition, held in Bangkok, Thailand, were as follows:
Winner: Fatima Bosch (Mexico)
First Runner-Up: Praveenar Singh (Thailand)
Second Runner-Up: Stephany Abasali (Venezuela)
Third Runner-Up: Ahtisa Manalo (Philippines)
Fourth Runner-Up: Olivia Yacé (Côte d’Ivoire)
