South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has stated that Nigerians should not be allowed to participate in the Miss SA competition.

South Africa's Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has addressed the ongoing debate regarding Miss SA 2024 finalist Chidimma Adetshina's eligibility. The controversy erupted after a viral video showed the 23-year-old Soweto-born law student and model celebrating with Nigerian family members. This sparked xenophobic backlash, with some South Africans calling for her disqualification from the pageant.

Adetshina, who has a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican descent, has faced criticism due to her mixed heritage. In response to a query from social media user Chris Excel, McKenzie stated that Nigerians should not compete in the Miss SA competition. He added, however, that he plans to gather all pertinent information before making a final decision.

"I just returned from Paris and will definitely get more information tomorrow. We truly cannot have Nigerians compete in our Miss SA competition. I want to get all the facts before I comment but it gives funny vibes already," McKenzie said. He acknowledged that the video with Nigerian family members raised "legitimate suspicion" and emphasized his need to address the matter thoroughly.