Onyinyechi Basil, representing Anambra State, has been crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2025 after an intense finale that lit up the Convention Center of Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Saturday night.
Basil rose to victory after outshining 21 other contestants who began the competition on August 26. Narrowed first to a top 10 and then a final five, she emerged as the new queen in the third edition of the pageant. Standing alongside Miss Lagos, Damilola Bolarinde, in the decisive moment, Basil was confirmed as the winner by the franchise, succeeding Chidinma Adetshina, last year’s titleholder.
The final five contestants featured Miss Anambra, Miss Lagos, Miss Bayelsa, Miss Ogun, and Miss Akwa Ibom. Bolarinde was named first runner-up, while Miss Bayelsa, Fortune Kurobo, and Miss Ogun, Irene Ikediashi, finished as second and third runners-up respectively. Miss Akwa Ibom, Idah Eno, also made the top five and was separately crowned Miss Supranational Nigeria 2025.
The night celebrated glamour, culture, and creativity. Contestants showcased Nigerian heritage through innovative traditional costumes, while the swimwear segment emphasized body confidence and inclusivity. Evening wear presentations and the question-and-answer session tested elegance, poise, and intellect, solidifying Basil’s edge over her peers. Entertainment included choreographed dance performances that energized the crowd, setting the tone for a vibrant show hosted by Anthony Abraham and Victory Wilson.
According to official voting statistics, Miss Delta, De-Blessing Asaboro, led the polls with 38,319 votes, followed by Miss Lagos with 34,033 and Miss Ekiti with 28,074, underscoring the immense public engagement with this year’s edition.
As the new titleholder, Basil will represent Nigeria on the global stage at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Bangkok, Thailand, on November 20, 2025. Alongside the crown, she is expected to receive a package of cash rewards, brand endorsements, training opportunities, and paid appearances.
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