By Chidi Nkwopara

OWERRI—The winner of  Miss Imo 2009 beauty pageant, Miss Onyinyechi Ibeagi, has been given automatic admission into Imo State University, Owerri, to study any course of her choice.

The Deputy Governor, Mrs. Ada Okwuonu, who made the announcement at the grand finale of the beauty pageant organised by the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Channel 12, Owerri, also called on parents to allow their wards that are interested in beauty contests to participate.

She commended NTA management and Mr. Kellie Emenyonu, the fashion designers, promising that government will continue to promote culture and tourism in the state.

In her speech, Miss Ibeagi solicited  the support  of the state government, non-governmental organisations and well meaning individuals for her numerous projects geared towards assisting the poor and less privileged in the society.

“I intend to organise a seminar on sustainable youth development, and render support to orphanages and assist the disabled”, Ibeagi said.

Meanwhile, Miss Ibeagi has visited the state Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Chief Chuman Nnaji, his Education counterpart, Prof Jude Njoku and the Special Adviser, Sanitation and Transport, Chief Willie Amadi.