Tamunosoye Karibi-George, representing Bayelsa State, has been crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026.
The 26-year-old, originally from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, emerged winner among 20 finalists at the competition themed “Pride, Power, and Purpose.” The grand finale was held on Saturday night at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos.
With her victory, Karibi-George 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.
Founder of Silverbird Group and former senator representing Bayelsa East, Ben Murray-Bruce, announced the result and described the new queen as “more than a queen.”
In a post on X, he wrote: “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 highlighted her advocacy initiative, Beyond Labels, which focuses on inclusion, dignity, and empowerment for children 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,” he said.
Murray-Bruce added that her “purpose, poise, intelligence, and passion” distinguished her throughout the competition.
He urged Nigerians to support her journey as she prepares to represent the country on the global stage.
“Now, the journey continues. Nigeria stands proudly behind you as you prepare to represent our great nation at the Miss World Festival in Vietnam. Go forth and inspire the world. Go forth and make Nigeria proud,” he said.
Miss World Nigeria, organised by the Silverbird Group, is the national pageant that selects Nigeria’s representative for the global Miss World competition, which emphasises Beauty with a Purpose, encouraging contestants to combine beauty with social impact projects.
Karibi-George succeeds Joy Mojisola Raimi, Miss World Nigeria 2025, who represented Nigeria at the 72nd Miss World pageant in Hyderabad, India, where she reached the Top 20 and finished among the Top 5 African contestants.
