By Matthew Johnson

Silverbird Group President and National Director of Miss World Nigeria, Mr. Guy Murray-Bruce, has described Miss World Nigeria as an intellectual and transformative platform that empowers young women for leadership and societal impact, dismissing longstanding misconceptions that it is solely about physical appearance.

Murray-Bruce disclosed this during a press conference in Lagos to mark Miss World Nigeria 2026 Camp Opening Day, featuring 20 contestants representing various states, with the theme “Beauty with a Purpose,” where he urged critics to focus on the achievements of beauty queens produced by the platform over the years rather than negative stereotypes.

According to him, the Miss World Nigeria pageant is anchored on the principle of “Beauty with a Purpose,” which encourages contestants to undertake projects and charitable initiatives that positively impact society.

He said the organisation had maintained a scandal-free record for four decades and should be celebrated for its successes, stressing that contestants should remain humble and use their influence to support others.

He explained that winning at Miss World goes beyond physical beauty, as contestants must demonstrate meaningful contributions to society.

Speaking on Nigeria’s prospects at the forthcoming Miss World competition in Vietnam, Murray-Bruce expressed confidence in the country’s representatives, describing Nigeria as a formidable force in international pageantry.

Murray-Bruce further explained that beauty pageants can serve as a springboard for greater opportunities, exposing contestants to experiences that can transform their lives and careers, while helping them secure promotions and become great brand ambassadors.

He noted that Nigerian contestants have consistently performed strongly on the global stage, recording top placements and even producing a world winner – Agbani Darego, in 2001.

Murray-Bruce said: “We have had the pageant for 40 years, scandal-free. Let’s not discuss scandals; let’s focus on successes. Success is what you think about, not what you do wrong.

“Participation in Miss World provides young women with opportunities for personal growth, career advancement, and access to influential networks.”

Citing the achievements of Bianca Ojukwu, who is currently the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Nigeria, he said the platform had produced women who went on to attain significant positions in public service and other sectors.

“I challenge the 2026 contestants to utilise the visibility provided by the platform to excel in various professions, including medicine, law, science, journalism, and technology.

“You also have to support other people because if you want people to support you, you need to support them. Don’t be selfish. Support other people and keep climbing.

“‘Beauty with a Purpose’ significantly means women with advocacy, idea generation, confidence, and good leadership, among other qualities.

“Alaro City, Prostar Sports International, Business News, Ebyss, and other partners who are with us are here to give their very best in supporting every contestant for Miss World Nigeria.

“I see Nigeria as very formidable, very strong, and a country to look out for. The girls in Africa, particularly, get intimidated by Nigeria. I look forward to a great show in Vietnam.

“Over the years, Nigerian beauty queens have carried out numerous humanitarian projects, including the provision of educational materials to less privileged communities and other charitable interventions aimed at improving lives,” he said.

Also speaking, Mrs. Juliette Hagerman, Producer and Lead Choreographer of Miss World Nigeria, explained the importance of Beauty with a Purpose, emphasizing that women possess intelligence, vision, and the ability to operate effectively on the global stage.

“Everyone will be going to camp for training for three weeks to gain experience, and the winner will be given the crown of courage.

“This platform opens doors for contestants to work with social organisations and boost their global experience,” Juliette said.

Head of Corporate Affairs, Alaro City, Mrs. Oluwaseyi Ashade, disclosed that the partnership with Silverbird is aimed at assisting young Nigerian women with vision and dreams, while supporting them in reaching the right audience.

“Alaro City is here to support young women with greater opportunities and assist them in getting to where they should be in the near future,” Ashade said.