In a moment of national pride and cultural celebration, Miss Cosmo Nigeria, Tofunmi Adekola, has clinched the prestigious Best Carnival Costume Award at the Miss Cosmo International 2025 Grand Finale & Beauty Music Festival. The award was presented by Ms. Tran Thi Thanh Thuyen, Director of Operations at Nam A Bank, marking a significant recognition of Nigeria’s creative excellence on the global stage.
The winning costume titled “OMO. ADA AREWA ~ The Rewoven Mosaic” stood out for its visionary interpretation of Nigeria’s cultural identity. It blended multiple ethnic influences—from Yoruba to Benin, Igbo, and Northern traditions into a unified ensemble that celebrated diversity, heritage, and artistry.
The design featured a flowing Aso-oke and Egungun-inspired skirt embellished with cowries, honouring ancestral Yoruba heritage. The bodice was intricately adorned with red coral beads, symbolizing shared cultural prestige across regions, while a raffia-woven neck cape paid homage to Northern textile craft. Motifs of the revered Benin lyoba highlighted feminine power and historical memory, and ruffled layers invoked the festive flair of the Calabar Carnival.
To crown the masterpiece, striking golden carnival wings evoked the unifying spirit of Nigerian festivals, reinforcing the message of unity in diversity. From hand-beaded accessories to meticulous detailing, every element represented Nigeria’s creative industries from traditional artisans to modern designers led by the talent at @modelacouture_agency and captured through the lens of @segun_wealth.
Speaking after her performance, Adekola expressed deep pride in showcasing Nigeria’s vibrancy on the global stage, calling the moment “pure magic.”
This win not only highlights Nigeria’s presence at global pageantry events but highlights the growing influence of African fashion and cultural storytelling on international platforms.
