Nigeria’s Tamunosoye Karibi-George has taken another major step towards the Miss World 2026 crown after earning a place in the competition’s Top 40.
The achievement came after the Nigerian representative won the Miss World Africa Top Model title during the Vietnam Beauty Fashion Fest in Nha Trang.
Her victory is the latest chapter in a pageant career that has seen her move from local competitions in Port Harcourt to the international spotlight.
Karibi-George, who was born and raised in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, studied Communications at Madonna University and developed a professional interest in public speaking, modelling and advocacy.
Her first notable pageant appearance came in 2023 at the Miss Port Harcourt City Beauty Pageant, where she emerged as first runner-up. She subsequently became Face of Port Harcourt City 2023/2024.
The following year brought an even bigger breakthrough when she competed at Miss Africa International in Ghana and won the continental title.
More Than a Beauty Queen
Karibi-George has also sought to use her public platform to draw attention to issues affecting children with disabilities and special needs.
Through her Beyond Labels initiative, she promotes inclusion, dignity and greater opportunities for children who are often defined by their disabilities rather than their abilities.
The advocacy became part of her wider Beauty With a Purpose campaign during her Miss World journey.
Nigeria’s Representation in Vietnam
Karibi-George earned the right to represent Nigeria internationally after winning the Miss World Nigeria 2026 title.
Competing under the theme “Pride, Power, and Purpose,” she emerged from a field of finalists and took over the national title before travelling to Vietnam for the global competition.
Since arriving in Vietnam, she has participated in different Miss World activities and fast-track events, looking for opportunities to secure her position ahead of the final.
Her Top Model victory proved to be a decisive moment.
By winning the African Top Model title, she automatically qualified for the Miss World Top 40, bringing her closer to the coveted crown.
Can She Go All the Way?
Karibi-George now has her sights set on making the next cut as the competition moves towards the Top 20 and ultimately the final.
Her combination of pageant experience, communication skills, modelling ability and social advocacy has given her several avenues through which to connect with the international audience.
The Miss World 2026 final is expected on September 5 in Vietnam.
For Nigerian pageant fans, her progress also brings back memories of Agbani Darego’s historic Miss World victory in 2001, when she became the first Nigerian to win the prestigious title.
Karibi-George has already secured her place among the leading contestants. The next question is whether she can go one step further and bring the Miss World crown back to Nigeria.
