Jael Tanite Kallamu, representing Borno State, has been crowned Nigeria Carnival Queen 2025/2026 after emerging winner at the grand finale of the Idoma International Carnival held on Friday night in Otukpo, Benue State.
Kallamu clinched the coveted title after outperforming 12 other contestants at the colourful event, which drew dignitaries, cultural enthusiasts and pageant lovers from across the country.
Miss Delta, Favour Rosemary Johnson, and Miss Kwara, Attah Akum, finished as first and second runners-up respectively.
The new queen went home with a brand new car and a one-year salary, sponsored by the President of the Idoma International Carnival, Prince Edwin Ochai.
The two runners-up also received a one-year salary and were appointed automatic brand ambassadors for Expression Wine.
The winner was selected by a panel of judges led by Nollywood actress Susan Peters, alongside other industry professionals.
Formerly known as Face of Idoma International, the Nigeria Carnival Queen pageant was established in 2013 and has since evolved into a national platform. Organisers say the contest aims to produce female ambassadors who can represent the Idoma nation locally and internationally, irrespective of tribe or religion.
Speaking at the event, Prince Ochai said the pageant has raised the bar for modern beauty contests in Nigeria by attracting a diverse pool of young women aged 18 to 25. He noted that although the platform is less than a decade old, its queens have made a notable impact through charity work, advocacy and career development.
“Our queens have travelled across Nigeria participating in charitable initiatives while promoting the beauty, intelligence and strength of Nigerian women,” Ochai said, adding that many former contestants have gone on to successful careers in government, business, finance, broadcasting, and film.
He stressed that the pageant remains open to women from all ethnic and religious backgrounds in line with its core values of peace, unity and national integration.
