Chief Grace Atinuke Oyelude, Nigeria’s first-ever Miss Nigeria, marked her 94th birthday today, drawing tributes from across the country for her pioneering legacy and lasting influence on generations of Nigerian women.
Chief Oyelude made history in 1957 when she won the inaugural Miss Nigeria pageant, and at the time, she was working with the United Africa Company (UAC). She used the prize money from the pageant to further her education in England, where she trained as a nurse and midwife.
Upon qualifying, she returned to Nigeria and devoted her life to healthcare and public service, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s medical landscape. Over the years, Oyelude has remained a revered figure not only for her contributions to beauty and culture but also for her lifelong dedication to service.
