Toyin Raji

Toyin Enitan Raji is a Nollywood actress and former beauty queen.

In 1995, Raji was crowned Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria. A huge favourite at the 1995 pageant, Raji had also competed in 1994, losing to Susan Hart of Benue while Raji was chosen as first runner up.

Raji distinguished herself as Nigeria’s representative at the 1995 Miss Universe pageant in Namibia, finishing in 11th place. Miss South Africa had finished in 10th to deny Raji the chance of becoming Nigeria’s first Miss Universe semi–finalist, although she was awarded the "Miss Cogeniality" prize.

The irony became more glaring later in 1995 when Raji went to South Africa for the Miss World contest. A huge favourite for the crown, Raji was prevented from participating following political controversy over Sani Abacha’s decision to execute nine dissidents. However, she was awarded the "Miss Personality" prize.

After appearing in a few Nollywood movies, Raji had a daughter and left the country to live in Houston, Texas.

References

* [http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1355/is_/ai_17801940 Nigeria Pulls Out of Miss World]
* [http://www.voy.com/46528/167.html Raji Leaves Miss World]