In a powerful and emotional announcement, Olivia Manuela Yacé, Miss Côte d’Ivoire 2024 and current Miss Universe Africa & Oceania continental queen, has officially resigned from her regional title and ended all future affiliation with the Miss Universe Organization.
The Ivorian beauty queen, who represented her country at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant held in Bangkok, Thailand, released a heartfelt statement on Wednesday, explaining that her decision stems from a need to remain faithful to her core values of respect, dignity, excellence, and equality — values she feels she can no longer fully uphold while holding the diminished continental role.
Key Excerpts from Olivia Yacé’s Resignation Statement:
“As the representative of Côte d’Ivoire at the Miss Universe 2025 competition in Bangkok, I witnessed firsthand that I was capable of accomplishing great things despite adversity. But to continue on this path, I must remain true to my values: respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunity — the strongest pillars that guide me.”
“With a heart full of gratitude and profound respect, I hereby announce my resignation from the title of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, as well as from any future affiliation with the Miss Universe Committee.”
She further emphasized her desire to be a positive role model, especially for young African girls:
“My greatest wish is to be a role model for the new generation, especially young girls. I encourage them to push their limits, to walk confidently into rooms where they believe they do not belong, and to proudly embrace their identity.”
In a strong call to action, Olivia urged Black, African, Caribbean, American, and Afro-descendant communities worldwide:
“Continue to enter spaces where you are not expected. Let us open the way for the brothers and sisters who will follow us. Never let anyone define who we are or limit our potential. Our presence matters, and our voices must be heard.”
The reigning continental queen also extended well-wishes to the newly crowned Miss Universe 2025 from Jamaica and expressed hope for her swift recovery following reported health challenges during the competition.
A Graceful Exit with a Powerful Message
Ending her statement on an uplifting note, Olivia declared:
“IT’S TIME FOR AFRICA.”
Her resignation has sparked widespread reactions across social media, with many praising her courage, dignity, and unapologetic stance on self-respect and African excellence.
ReportNaija will continue to monitor developments surrounding this story and the future of African representation at Miss Universe.
With love and respect, just as Olivia signed off — we salute a queen who chose principle over a crown.
#ItsTimeForAfrica #OliviaYacé #MissUniverse2025 #ReportNaija

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