Bayelsa’s Tamunosoye Karibi-George has won Miss World Nigeria 2026 after a strong performance in Lagos.

The grand finale took place at the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, on Friday. A total of 37 contestants from across Nigeria competed for the crown.

The pageant was organised by the Silverbird Group. Contestants first entered a week-long camp. It included leadership training and community engagement. These activities formed part of the final judging process.

The contest moved from 37 contestants to a top 10. Strong contenders included Miss Edo, Miss Abuja, Miss Delta, Miss Osun, Miss Rivers, and Miss Anambra. Karibi-George advanced through each stage and won in the final round.

She now succeeds Joy Raimi, Miss World Nigeria 2025. Raimi also reached the top 20 at Miss World and ranked among the top five in Africa.

Guy Murray-Bruce, COO of Silverbird Group, announced her victory. He praised her composure and advocacy work.

Karibi-George will now represent Nigeria at the 73rd Miss World pageant in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The event runs from August 9 to September 5. About 140 countries will compete.

She leads an initiative called Beyond Labels, which focuses on children with special needs. She said:
“Through my Beyond Labels initiative, I advocate for education and inclusivity, challenging stereotypes and societal labels, especially for children with special needs.”

She added:
“Most of the time, these kids are seen first for what society thinks they lack rather than the brilliance they carry, the creativity they possess, the joy they bring and the endless potential waiting to be nurtured.”