Elizabeth Abiola Salawu, a music artist, model, and tech enthusiast from Ikeja Division, has been crowned Queen of IBILE at the prestigious pageant’s grand finale held on Friday at the Shell Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos.
Akwuobi Genevieve from Ikorodu Division and Inioluwa Masominu from Badagry Division emerged as the first and second runners-up, respectively, in a dazzling event that celebrated the cultural richness and unity of Lagos State.
Organized by the Queen of IBILE Foundation in collaboration with Platinum Entertainment, the pageant featured 16 contestants representing Lagos State’s five administrative divisions: Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe. Over weeks of mentorship in cultural values, public speaking, and resilience, the contestants were prepared for leadership roles and community impact.
The evening was marked by electrifying performances from Nerfitti, Hundred, and Kodak, as well as a vibrant cultural display and an elegant dinner gown showcase. Distinguished figures, including actress Oreofe Oguntola and thespian Efe Orhorha, provided guidance to the participants during their stay at the IBILE Mansion in Amen Estate, Ibeju-Lekki.
Salawu’s victory comes with ₦2 million, a cultural exchange trip to Mexico with the Yoruba Culture Group, and technical support for a development project in her community. The runners-up and mentor Efe Orhorha were also rewarded with ₦1 million each.
Speaking at the event, convener Ms. Olayinka Edu highlighted the pageant’s purpose: “This initiative celebrates the indigenous people of Lagos, showcases the state’s rich cultural heritage, and empowers young women to reach their full potential and become self-sustainable.”
The event also honoured prominent figures, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Femi Gbajabiamila, and cultural icons Nike Okundaye-Davies and Bolanle Austen-Peters, as “Icons of Lagos” for their contributions to preserving Lagos State’s heritage.
With its focus on empowerment, cultural pride, and unity, the Queen of IBILE pageant left attendees inspired, reaffirming its role as a platform for young women to make meaningful impacts in their communities.
Source: African Publicity
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