Nigeria’s Samuel Nwajaju Becomes First African to Win Mister International Title

Samuel Nwajaju, a 23-year-old Nigerian model and University of Port Harcourt undergraduate, has made history as the first African to win the prestigious Mister International pageant. The 16th edition of the event, held in Bangkok, Thailand, saw Nwajaju triumph over 47 other contestants, the largest number in the pageant’s history.

Founded in 2006 by the late Alan Sim, Mister International is one of the world’s leading male beauty pageants, second only to Mister World in terms of scope and participation. This year’s competition marked a significant milestone as it opened its doors to fathers, married, and divorced men for the first time in its 16-year history.

Nwajaju’s journey to the title began in June when he won the Mister of Nigeria 2024 competition at the Lagos Oriental Hotel. During the international competition, he stood out not only for his charisma and poise but also by winning the Best Swimwear category. His victory places him ahead of strong contenders, including Vietnam’s Nguyễn Mạnh Lân, the first runner-up, and Indonesia’s Glenn Victor Sutanto, the second runner-up.

Although the cash prize for Mister International remains undisclosed, winners gain global recognition through sponsorships, endorsements, and collaborations with major brands. They also participate in charitable and promotional events worldwide, serving as ambassadors of cultural exchange and international goodwill.

Nwajaju succeeds Kim Thitisan Goodburn of Thailand, taking on a role that symbolizes global representation.