16/03/2026
Benue State Government Called, and Nikita Nkese Answered
Last December, I had the honour of being invited to serve as the Official Chaperone for the Benue State Carnival Queen Pageant 2025.
At the time I received the invitation, there was significant insecurity in Benue State, Nigeria, that had gone viral in the news. Despite my own health challenge and understandable concerns about safety, I chose to go. My life’s passion for mentoring and coaching young women to become the best versions of themselves outweighed my fears of banditry and kidnapping. I believed the universe would be kind to me, and surely the God of my grandfather, Pastor E. E. Okon, the first National President of The Apostolic Church, would protect me.
Having been a two-time national queen myself, Miss University of Calabar (2009) and Miss Niger Delta (2012), and having maintained a scandal-free record, I know what it takes to emerge as a queen, to mould/mentor a queen, and to be a queen of impact.
Every day in camp, I ensured the contestants learned something new; from personal development to building their self-confidence, discipline, public speaking skills, and the responsibility that comes with wearing a crown, influence and public visibility. The young women of Benue State are incredibly respectful, curious, and eager to learn.
I am grateful to God for the journey of life that has equipped me with experiences and knowledge that now allows me to contribute to the training, mentoring, and leadership development of young women across different platforms.
My sincere appreciation goes to Hon. Tarfa Akem for making this opportunity possible. It was truly a privilege to serve.
I strongly believe that in a society where some In a time when social media often distorts the idea of influence and success, I strongly believe governments and institutions should invest in structured leadership and development camps for young women spaces where dignity, self-worth, leadership, and purpose are intentionally cultivated, just as I was taught during the Miss University of Nigeria Camp (2011) by Mr. Taylor Nazzal, rather than being merely platforms for display.
Being invited by the Benue State Government has reaffirmed a few lessons that continue to guide my life's journey:
1. Value does not force itself to be noticed; it prepares for the right time and then manifests.
2. In all you do: read, study, relearn, and invest in self-development. These habits keep opening doors for me.
3. You do not have to be everywhere to be seen or known. Impact announces itself.
4. Most importantly, remain in the place of prayer and ask God to reveal your life’s purpose.
