Nigerians are overjoyed as one of their own, Samuel Chinemerem Nwajagu, makes history by becoming the first African to win the prestigious Mister International Pageantry.
The 23-year-old claimed the coveted title on December 14, 2024, marking a monumental achievement for both Nigeria and the African continent.
The Mister International Pageant, established in 2006, is one of the world’s leading male beauty contests, celebrating not just physical appearance but also talent, intelligence, and community engagement. Nwajagu’s victory at the 16th edition of the competition, held in Bangkok, Thailand, underscores Africa’s rising prominence on the global stage of pageantry.
The competition featured 47 contestants, with only 15 advancing to the semi-final round. By the final round, Samuel Nwajagu stood among the top five alongside contestants from Vietnam, the Netherlands, Indonesia, and Spain. In a surprising twist, the Philippines was added as a sixth finalist, intensifying the anticipation for the results.
During the highly anticipated question-and-answer segment, often regarded as the most challenging round, Nwajagu was asked, “What sustainable practices will you encourage people to adopt to protect our planet for future generations?” Drawing on his background as an engineer, he emphasised reducing reliance on fossil fuels and adopting renewable energy sources such as solar and hydroelectric power. His thoughtful and impactful response earned resounding applause from the audience.
Samuel’s journey to this historic win began in July when he was crowned Mister International Nigeria, securing his place in the global competition. His standout performances throughout the event also earned him the Best in Swimwear award, further highlighting his prowess.
In his victory speech, Nwajagu expressed heartfelt gratitude and joy, stating, “This is just the beginning.” He vowed to use his platform to inspire others and advocate for positive change, embodying the spirit of the Mister International title.
As Nigerians celebrate this milestone, Samuel Nwajagu’s triumph serves as a beacon of hope and pride for Africa, showcasing its rich talent and potential on the global stage.
