Nigerian model Bethel Mbamara has emerged as the first runner-up at the 2026 Mister Global competition in Thailand, earning international recognition and securing another major achievement for Nigeria in male pageantry.
Mbamara finished behind Türkiye’s representative, Dilhan Divrikli, who was crowned Mister Global 2026 at the grand finale held on October 10 in Thailand. Myron Jude “MJ” Ordillano of the Philippines finished as the second runner-up. The Nigerian model’s impressive performance placed him among the competition’s top three finalists, marking another milestone in his growing international career.
Representing Nigeria, Mbamara progressed through several stages of the competition, which brought together male contestants from different countries. He advanced to the Top 20 following the swimwear presentation before securing a place in the Top 10 through the formal wear and speech segments. His strong performance earned him a place in the Top Five and eventually the final three contestants.
Although he did not win the overall title, his first runner-up finish represents Nigeria’s best placement in the history of the Mister Global competition, according to Nigerian media reports. The result further strengthens Nigeria’s presence on the international pageant stage.
Mbamara’s latest achievement builds on his success at the 2025 Mister International competition, where he represented Nigeria and finished as the third runner-up. During that competition, held in Thailand in September 2025, he was also crowned Mister International Africa 2025.
His performance at Mister Global 2026 demonstrates his continued competitiveness on the international stage, as he follows up his previous continental title with another major placement. The two achievements have helped establish Mbamara as a notable Nigerian representative in international male pageantry.
Beyond modelling and pageantry, Mbamara is a law student at Rivers State University and the founder of the Rising Kings Initiative. The initiative focuses on empowering young boys through mentorship, skills development and programmes designed to build confidence, positive values and responsible leadership.
His involvement in youth development adds another dimension to his public profile, extending his work beyond fashion and modelling. By combining his pageant appearances with advocacy, Mbamara has an opportunity to use his growing international visibility to promote issues affecting young people.
Nigeria has continued to attract attention at international male beauty competitions, with contestants earning recognition against representatives from around the world.
Mbamara’s first runner-up finish at Mister Global 2026 adds to that growing record and gives the country another reason to celebrate its representation on the global stage.
While the overall crown went to Türkiye’s Dilhan Divrikli, Mbamara’s performance places Nigeria among the leading countries at this year’s competition.His achievement also highlights the role of international pageants in showcasing national identity, confidence, communication skills and cultural diversity.
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