Tamunosoye Karibi-George, representing Bayelsa State, has emerged as Miss World Nigeria 2026 after defeating contestants from across the country at the pageant’s grand finale held at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos, as reported by The Telegraph Nigeria and Punch. The 26-year-old beauty queen secured the national crown under the competition’s theme, “Pride, Power, and Purpose,” earning the right to 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. As reported by Silverbird Group and multiple media outlets, Karibi-George emerged victorious among 20 finalists from across Nigeria.
Although she represented Bayelsa State, Karibi-George hails from Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Her victory was announced by Silverbird Group founder and former senator Ben Murray-Bruce, who described her as “more than a queen” and praised her advocacy initiative, Beyond Labels, which focuses on inclusion, dignity, and empowerment for children with special needs. Vanguard noted that contestants underwent leadership training, interviews, and community-based activities as part of the judging process.
Karibi-George succeeds Joy Mojisola Raimi, who represented Nigeria at the 72nd Miss World competition in India and finished among the Top 20 contestants globally. Pageant observers say the new queen’s combination of advocacy, poise, and leadership distinguished her throughout the competition and aligns with the Miss World organization’s “Beauty With a Purpose” philosophy.
Her emergence continues Bayelsa State’s growing visibility on the national pageantry stage and provides Nigeria with a new ambassador ahead of one of the world’s most prestigious beauty competitions. As preparations begin for Vietnam 2026, supporters and organizers will be looking to build on Nigeria’s recent strong performances and further enhance the country’s presence on the global pageant stage.
