Tamunosoye Karibi-George, representing Bayelsa State, has been crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026 after emerging winner at the national pageant held in Lagos.
The 26-year-old contestant, originally from Port Harcourt in Rivers State, secured the title at the grand finale hosted at the Federal Palace Hotel.
She outperformed other finalists in a competition themed “Pride, Power, and Purpose.”
Her win qualifies her to represent Nigeria at the 73rd Miss World Festival, set to hold in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from August 9 to September 5.
Announcing the result, founder of Silverbird Group and former senator Ben Murray-Bruce praised Karibi-George and described her as a strong advocate for social development.
“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!” he wrote on X.
He further noted her humanitarian work through Beyond Labels, an initiative focused on supporting children with special needs and promoting inclusion.
“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 also urged Nigerians to rally behind her as she prepares for the global 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.”
The Miss World Nigeria pageant, organised by Silverbird Group, selects the country’s official representative for the Miss World competition, which highlights humanitarian efforts under its “Beauty with a Purpose” platform.
Karibi-George succeeds Joy Mojisola Raimi, who represented Nigeria at the 72nd Miss World pageant in India, where she reached the Top 20 and was among the best-performing African contestants.
