By Taiwo Babatunde
History was made on June 10, 2025, at the prestigious CDC Ballroom in Bangkok, Thailand, as Nigeria’s own Somto Nnoruga secured the nation’s highest-ever placement at Manhunt International, the world’s oldest and most revered male pageant.
Nnoruga’s exceptional performance saw him not only clinch the coveted “Best African Model” award but also impressively finish as the 8th Runner-Up, placing him firmly within the Top 10 of the fiercely competitive global event.
Nnoruga’s journey to this monumental achievement began just a month prior, on May 11, 2025, when he was crowned Winner at Misters of Nigeria 2025, Nigeria’s biggest male pageant. His victory at the national pageant earned him the distinct honor of representing Nigeria on the international stage, with the Misters of Nigeria organization selecting Manhunt International as the perfect platform to showcase his talent.
Manhunt International, established in 1993, holds a significant place in the world of male pageantry as the pioneering and longest-running competition of its kind. Its legacy as the original male pageant has paved the way for numerous other competitions, solidifying its status as a benchmark for male modeling and charisma. To achieve such a high placement in a contest with such a rich history and global reach is a testament to Nnoruga’s dedication, talent, and undeniable stage presence.
Nnoruga’s remarkable showing has not only brought immense pride to Nigeria but also set a new standard for future representatives. His win as “Best African Model” further underscores his unique appeal and significant impact on the competition. This unprecedented success at Manhunt International is expected to open new doors for Nnoruga as an ambassador for Nigerian excellence on the global stage.
The Misters of Nigeria organization has expressed immense satisfaction with Nnoruga’s performance, highlighting his commitment and the diligent preparation that led to this historic outcome. This achievement is a clear indication of Nigeria’s growing presence and influence in the international pageant circuit, promising an even brighter future for the nation’s representatives in global competitions.