Nigeria's Tamunosoye Karibi-George has finished among the Top 12 contestants at Miss World 2026 in Vietnam, marking another impressive international achievement for the country. The 26-year-old, popularly known as Soye, previously won the Miss World Africa Top Model title, secured a Top 40 spot and advanced through the competition before ending her journey in the Top 12. Her advocacy for children with disabilities and her environmental message also helped bring Nigerian culture and social issues to the global stage.
Nigeria has recorded another strong showing on the international stage after Tamunosoye Karibi-George, popularly known as Soye, finished among the Top 12 contestants at Miss World 2026.
The 26-year-old Nigerian representative achieved the feat during the grand finale of the 73rd Miss World competition, held in Nha Trang, Vietnam, on September 5, 2026. Although she did not advance to the final six, her Top 12 finish marked an impressive performance for Nigeria among contestants from more than 100 countries.
Karibi-George was crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026 in June after emerging from a field of 20 finalists. The communications professional from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, represented Bayelsa State at the national competition.
Her international campaign got off to a strong start when she won the Miss World Africa Top Model title during the Vietnam Beauty Fashion Fest. The victory secured her an automatic place in the Miss World Top 40.
She subsequently progressed to the Top 20 before securing her place in the Top 12.
Beyond beauty and pageantry, Karibi-George used her Miss World platform to promote issues close to her heart.
Her “Beyond Labels” advocacy initiative focuses on inclusion and creating opportunities for children with disabilities and special needs. She also highlighted environmental concerns affecting Nigeria's Niger Delta during her presentation at the competition.
Her appearances also showcased Nigerian culture, with her outfits and presentations drawing attention to the country's identity and the heritage of the Niger Delta.
Although the Miss World crown ultimately went to Joheirry Mola Dominguez of the Dominican Republic, Karibi-George's Top 12 achievement has been widely celebrated in Nigeria.
The Rivers State Government also congratulated her, describing her performance as bold and impressive and praising the confidence and cultural values she displayed throughout the competition.
Karibi-George's performance continues Nigeria's strong presence at the Miss World competition, following Joy Mojisola Raimi's Top 20 finish at the previous edition.
Her journey from Port Harcourt to the international Miss World stage has given Nigerians another reason to celebrate and has highlighted the growing influence of Nigerian women in global beauty, advocacy and cultural representation.