Nigeria’s representative, Maristella Okpala, wins best National Costume at Miss Universe 2021

Miss Universe Nigeria, Maristella Okpala, won the Best in National Costume award at the just concluded Miss Universe 2021 pageant.

The 2021 Miss Universe grand finale took place in Eilat, Israel, on Sunday, December 12.

For the National Costume segment of the competition, Maristella Okpala wore an outfit inspired by the ‘Mmanwa’ masquerade from Southeastern Nigeria.

The costume was designed by Filipino fashion student Kenny Gasper.

The costume featured a beaded headpiece, an ornate tribal mask, and an ancient back cape.

Designer Gasper took to Facebook to celebrate after his design worn by Maristella, which won Best in National Costume.

He wrote: “Thank you Lord. I still can’t believe it. I cried while hugging my mom.. thank you to all who greeted!”