400L OAU Student, Iyanuoluwa Atewogbola Crowned Queen Moremi Ajasoro 2024

The Champion, Iyanuoluwa Atewogbola, a 21-year-old Zoology student at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has been crowned Queen Moremi Ajasoro (QMA) 2024.

The 400-level student, who is also a professional makeup artist and model, emerged as the winner during the grand finale held on Monday, at Grand Resorts and Leisure in Ile-Ife.

As part of her victory, Atewogbola received a cash prize of One Million Naira and a branded car. She plans to use her reign to champion the fight against domestic violence.

The event also celebrated other exceptional contestants. The first runner-up and Miss Culture, Adeyeye Eniola, a graduate of the College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ijero Ekiti, from Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State.

She impressed judges with her strong connection to cultural heritage.

The second runner-up, Boluwatife Oluwajimi, a 24-year-old fashion entrepreneur, showcased her creativity through thread painting and yarn art. She also enjoys sewing, fashion illustration, sightseeing, and hosting.

The third runner-up and Miss Amity, Munirat Babalola, an Economics student at the National Open University. Originally from Offa, Kwara State, was celebrated for her exceptional interpersonal skills and camaraderie during the competition.

This year’s pageant, themed “Iwalewa: The Law of Creative Self-Culture,” emphasized the importance of character, charisma, and leadership in addition to beauty.

The initiative draws inspiration from the legacy of Queen Moremi Ajasoro(QMA), known for her bravery and sacrifice.

In her opening remarks, the QMA Convener and Global Ambassador, Olori Aderonke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, highlighted the program’s broader mission as that which embodies culture, leadership and empowerment.

“This initiative is not just about beauty; it is about empowering women to lead and inspire. His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, envisioned this platform as a means of shaping future female leaders.

In her keynote address, Mrs Olufunso Amosun, the Yeye Moremi of the Source, lauded Queen Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi’s efforts in sustaining the legacy of Queen Moremi and using the platform to empower young women.

Amosun encouraged the participants to see themselves as winners.

“Your courage and participation alone make you winners. The traits of Queen Moremi you’ve acquired during this journey will serve you well.

“I commended Olori Aderonke for immortalising the memory of this legendary queen and projecting her legacy on the world stage”. She stated.

The QMA pageant is a key event in the annual Edi Festival, which commemorates Queen Moremi Ajasoro’s heroic deeds in liberating the people of Ile-Ife from their adversaries.

As the new Queen, Atewogbola is set to continue this legacy, advocating for women’s rights and addressing critical social issues, particularly domestic violence.

Each winner will receive prizes and opportunities to advance their causes and professional careers.

The 2024 Queen Moremi Ajasoro Pageant affirmed her position as a platform for cultural pride and female empowerment in Nigeria.