The Cross River State capital, Calabar, came alive on Saturday as Miss Glory Tete of Akpabuyo LGA was crowned Queen of Humanity 2024 during the second edition of the Queen of Humanity Beauty Pageant. The glamorous event, held at the Calabar International Conference Centre, was a highlight of the annual Carnival Calabar Festival and celebrated the empowerment and potential of the girl child.
The pageantry, conceptualized by the State’s First Lady, Bishop Dr. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, showcased the elegance, talent, and resilience of young women while promoting the values of equity, justice, and kindness. The First Lady, a staunch advocate for the girl child, described the pageant as a platform that goes beyond beauty and brains, serving as a catalyst for societal transformation.
“Our Queen of Humanity 2024 will champion transformative projects that align with our Humanity Without Borders Initiative,” Mrs. Otu stated. “Her reign will amplify voices, nurture dreams, and foster progress with humanity at its core.”
Governor Bassey Otu, his Deputy Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, members of the Federal and State Executive Councils, traditional rulers, and other dignitaries were in attendance at the grand event.
In her acceptance speech, Queen Glory Tete expressed gratitude to God and the First Lady for the opportunity to lead as a symbol of hope and progress. She pledged to use her reign to promote humanitarian values, inspire young girls, and uphold core societal ethics.
The star prize of the night included ₦5 million and a brand-new SUV, awarded to Queen Glory Tete. The first runner-up, Miss Deborah Aki, received ₦3 million, while the second runner-up, Miss Ritermiquin Odey, won ₦1.5 million. Each of the remaining 17 finalists received consolation prizes of ₦200,000.
The outgoing Queen of Humanity, Miss Margaret Ekpo, reflected on her impactful reign, crediting the initiative for boosting her confidence and shaping her worldview. “This platform has proven that the girl child can rise to any challenge with zeal and determination,” she said.
The contestants wowed the audience with appearances in swimwear, traditional attire, and evening dresses. The First Lady lauded their resilience and grace, describing them as “torchbearers of ethical values and symbols of virtuous living.”
The evening was capped with tears of joy from Mrs. Nya Ani, the mother of the newly crowned queen, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the organizers. “This is a proud moment for our family and a dream come true for my daughter,” she said.
The Queen of Humanity 2024 is set to embark on transformative projects aimed at fostering inclusivity and creating a brighter future for girls across Cross River State and beyond.