Damilola Bolarinde, representing Lagos, has been crowned winner of the Face of Hope 2026 pageant, earning the title of Miss International Nigeria 2026 at the grand finale held in Lagos.
The event took place on April 19, 2026, at the Eko Convention Center, where contestants from across the country competed after weeks of training and assessment. Bolarinde emerged winner ahead of Miss Anambra, who emerged first runner-up, and Miss Rivers, who placed second runner-up.
Her victory also secured her the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the Miss International 2026 competition scheduled to hold in Japan later this year. The pageant finale featured the presence of reigning Miss International 2025, Catalina Duque of Colombia, who crowned the new titleholder.
Prior to the finale, Bolarinde had gained early recognition during the camp phase, winning the Day 1 Punctuality Award, which came with a ₦100,000 cash prize. She also secured a place among the top finalists through the public voting segment of the competition.
Beyond the crown, the winner received a prize package that includes a luxury Mercedes-Benz GLE 350, a ₦10 million cash prize, a modelling contract, and professional training in catwalk and etiquette. The platform also offers increased media visibility and opportunities for brand endorsements, alongside the chance to represent Nigeria internationally at the Miss International pageant.
Bolarinde, a professional model, previously held the title of Miss Grand Nigeria 2022 and was first runner-up at Miss Universe Nigeria 2025. She is also known for her advocacy initiative, “The Unconventional Quest,” which encourages young people to explore non-traditional career paths.
The Face of Hope pageant, themed “Her Flow Her Power,” continues to position itself as both a beauty competition and an empowerment platform, with organisers emphasising its focus on discipline, skills development, and international exposure for participants.
Ademide Adebayo
