Shatu Garko, an 18-year-old model has been crowned the 44th Miss Nigeria after besting 18 other contestants at the beauty pageant on Friday, 17th December 2021.
Garko, a horse-riding lover, represented the North West region of Nigeria during the pageant is the first Hijabi pageant winner in Nigeria.
Amid glamour and glitz, the pageant took place at Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos State.
The new Miss Nigeria succeeded Etsanyi Tukura, a native of Taraba State, 43rd winner of the 2019 Miss Nigeria contest.
Nicole Ikot emerged as the first runner up and Kasarachi Okoro was the second runner-up in the contest.
“Winning this competition means a lot to me,” Garko said before being crowned Miss Nigeria. “My whole life I have always wanted to be a Miss Nigeria. I’d like to thank Miss Nigeria and its sponsors. I would also like to thank my mum for supporting and loving me.”
She was awarded the cash prize of N10 million, a luxury apartment, a car, and ambassadorship.
See pictures and videos below,