Tamunosoye Karibi-George, Bayelsa State’s representative, has emerged as the winner of the 2026 Miss World Nigeria pageant.
The 26-year-old edged out the 10 finalists to clinch the highly coveted crown at the pageant’s grand finale held at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, over the weekend in Lagos.
A total of 37 contestants from across the country participated in the event, following a week-long camp focused on leadership development and community activities.
The competition was narrowed down to 10 finalists before Karibi-George won the title in a competition themed “Pride, Power, and Purpose,” defeating top contestants from Edo, Anambra, Rivers, and Abuja in the final round.
She succeeds Joy Raimi, the 2025 winner, who represented Nigeria at the global Miss World contest.
Guy Murray-Bruce, the chief operating officer of Silverbird Group, announced Karibi-George as the winner, praising her composure and her dedication to social causes.
He posted on X, “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!
He highlighted her advocacy work through the initiative Beyond Labels, which focuses on inclusion, dignity, and empowerment for children 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 honor of wearing the crown and carrying the hopes of a nation.
“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.”
Miss World Nigeria, organised by the Silverbird Group, is one of Nigeria’s premier beauty pageants.
As the new Miss World Nigeria, she will represent the country at the 73rd Miss World pageant in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, scheduled to take place from August 9 to September 5, 2026.
Karibi-George is the founder of Beyond Labels, a charity initiative that advocates for the education, inclusion, and protection of children with special needs. She previously represented Nigeria and won the Miss Africa International title in December 2024.
Packaged by Temitayo Afolabi
