By Prosper Mene
Joy Mojisola Raimi, a 24-year-old graduate of the University of Port Harcourt, has been crowned Miss World Nigeria 2025 and is set to carry Nigeria’s flag at the 72nd Miss World pageant in Hyderabad, India, from May 7 to 31, 2025. The grand finale, scheduled for May 31 at the HITEX Exhibition Centre, will see Raimi compete against over 100 contestants from around the globe for the coveted title.
Raimi, who hails from Osun State but was raised in Rivers State, clinched the Miss World Nigeria title on April 5, 2025, at a dazzling ceremony held at the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos. Outshining 36 other contestants, she impressed judges with her poise, resilience, and advocacy for humanitarian causes. Her victory was announced by Ben Murray-Bruce of the Silverbird Group, who praised her for overcoming personal challenges, including bullying, to claim the crown.
A seasoned pageant contender, Raimi’s journey to the international stage is marked by determination and triumph. She previously won the Miss Port Harcourt City International title in 2021 and was named Miss Intercontinental Africa at the 50th Miss Intercontinental pageant in Egypt, citing the legacy of Nigeria’s Bianca Ojukwu in 1989. Her story of overcoming personal tragedies, including the loss of her mother and hardships under a guardian’s care, has resonated with many, making her a symbol of resilience and self-worth.
At the Miss World pageant, Raimi has already begun to shine. During the opening ceremony in Hyderabad, she showcased Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, wearing a bespoke ensemble blending Edo and Igbo traditions with coral beads and intricate motifs symbolizing unity. Her participation in the Hyderabad Heritage Walk, dressed in a striking asooke outfit, highlighted Nigerian artistry and tradition. Raimi aims to make a strong impression in the pageant’s talent, beauty with a purpose, and cultural expression segments.
Beyond her beauty, Raimi is passionate about empowering young women and promoting education and self-confidence. She leads The Love for Humanity project, a grassroots initiative focused on care, kindness, and restoring faith in everyday life. “Standing here today as Miss World Nigeria 2025 is proof that no one can define your worth but you,” Raimi said during her crowning, a statement that brought the audience to their feet.
As Nigeria’s 41st representative at Miss World, Raimi follows in the footsteps of Agbani Darego, who made history as the first Nigerian to win the title in 2001. Nigerians are optimistic that Raimi’s elegance, intellect, and heartfelt advocacy could bring the crown home again. Posts on Social media reflect growing excitement, with users calling her “a definition of beauty and brain” and urging support for her global journey.
The 72nd Miss World pageant, inaugurated with a vibrant ceremony at Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad, will feature contestants from 120 countries. With Telangana’s rich cultural traditions on display and prominent figures like Chief Minister Revanth Reddy in attendance, the event promises to be a celebration of global unity and purpose.
As Raimi prepares to compete, she carries the hopes of a nation and the spirit of Nigerian excellence. Follow her journey on social media and join Nigerians in cheering for Joy Mojisola Raimi to make history at Miss World 2025.
