The Nigeria’s Beauty of Africa International Pageant (BAIP) has officially withdrawn its franchise from the Miss International Organisation, ending a partnership that spanned more than a decade.
In a press release, BAIP announced the unanimous decision, citing concerns over “unfair treatment and financial practices” and a strategic plan to refocus on its own continental pageant.
For over ten years, BAIP has been the national franchise holder for Miss International in Nigeria and other African territories, sending delegates to compete on the global stage. However, the organisation stated that a “strategic realignment of priorities” was necessary.
The primary reasons for the withdrawal include what BAIP describes as “persistent patterns of unequal treatment toward African countries within the Miss International framework.” According to the statement, despite significant financial investments, including high franchise and participation fees, African delegates are frequently used to “fill spaces” rather than being afforded equitable opportunities to win the crown. BAIP called this systemic imbalance an undermining of mutual respect and fairness in international pageantry.
Engr. Daniel Opuene, President of BAIP, addressed the move, stating, “After more than ten years of commitment and investment, we must prioritise what truly serves our vision and the young women we represent. While we are grateful for the experiences gained through Miss International, the time has come to channel our energy exclusively into strengthening Beauty of Africa International as Africa’s premier platform for empowerment, cultural pride, and global representation.”
Effective immediately, BAIP will no longer send delegates to Miss International. All future efforts will be directed toward the success of its own event, the Beauty of Africa International Pageant (African Finals).
