Joy Ebere Ekekwe, a 26-year-old business entrepreneur from Abia state, has emerged as the winner of the 11th season of Miss Tourism Nigeria. The competition, which saw over 300 hopefuls vying for the crown, showcased Joy’s financial consulting expertise and entrepreneurial skills, ultimately earning her the prestigious title.
The Miss Tourism Nigeria 2023 pageant went beyond beauty and catwalks, evaluating the contestants’ abilities in various aspects of life, including cooking skills, physical fitness, and their understanding of Nigeria’s diverse cultures. At the grand finale held at RushingTap Studios in Lekki, Joy stood out among the other confident and beautiful Tourism Ambassadors, claiming the coveted crown.
As the newly crowned Miss Tourism Nigeria. Joy Ebere Ekekwe will proudly represent Nigeria in the upcoming 2023 Miss World Tourism competition. Scheduled to take place in Colombo, Sri Lanka from July 20th to 30th.
The runners-up also earned their respective titles: Somtochukwu Maduagwu will represent Nigeria at Miss Tourism World in China. Sophia Adaeze won Miss Glam Nigeria and will represent Nigeria in India. And Loveth Oyetunji, Miss Tourism Africa Nigeria, will represent the country at the Miss Tourism Africa pageant in September.
Additionally, the event celebrated notable individuals in Nigeria with the prestigious Spirit Awards Africa. Some of the recipients included Korede Bello, honored as the Advocacy Person of the Year. Ric Hassani as Entertainer of the Year, MC Acapella as Comedian of the Year. Tonye Harts as Event Producer of the Year. Sola Oyebade’s Mahogany Production is the Event Company of the Year. And Bella Naija was recognized as the Media Company of the Year.
The awards acknowledged Monty Suites, Topisto Tomato Mix, and Garden City Mall. As Luxury Hotel of the Year, African Product of the Year, and New Tourism Destination, respectively.