Bayelsa Beauty Queen, Tamunosoye Karibi-George Crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026

Tamunosoye Karibi-George, representing Bayelsa State, has been crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026.

The 26-year-old beauty queen won the crown over 19 other contestants at the ceremony held over the weekend at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel.

Although she represented Bayelsa State in the competition, Karibi-George is an indigene of Rivers State.

Her triumph earns her the privilege to represent Nigeria at the 73rd Miss World Festival, which will take place in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from August 9 to September 5, 2026.

Ben Murray-Bruce, the founder of the Silverbird Group and a former senator, announced the result in a post on Sunday and congratulated the new queen.

“WE HAVE A QUEEN! A new chapter begins. Please join us in celebrating TAMUNOSOYE KARIBI-GEORGE, representing Bayelsa State, as the newly crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026!” Murray-Bruce wrote.

He also commended Karibi-George’s advocacy work through her initiative, Beyond Labels, which focuses on supporting children living with special needs.

“More than a queen, Tamunosoye is a passionate advocate for change. Through her initiative, Beyond Labels, she champions inclusion, dignity, and empowerment for children with special needs, creating safe spaces where every child is encouraged to dream boldly and realise that their circumstances do not define their future.

“Her purpose, poise, intelligence, and passion shone brightly, earning her the honour of wearing the crown and carrying the hopes of a nation.”

Murray-Bruce urged Nigerians to rally behind the new queen as she prepares for the international contest.

“Now, the journey continues. Nigeria stands proudly behind you as you prepare to represent our great nation on the global stage at the Miss World Festival in Vietnam.

“Go forth and inspire the world. Go forth and make Nigeria proud.”

Karibi-George succeeds Joy Mojisola Raimi, who represented Nigeria at the 72nd edition of Miss World in Hyderabad, India, where she finished among the Top 20 contestants and ranked in the Top Five from Africa.