Rosemary Nkem Anieze (later Adams), born August 8, 1940, in Onicha-Olona, Delta State, made history in 1960 when she was crowned Miss Nigeria in the year of the nation’s independence. Her win earned her the honorary title “Miss Independence,” symbolising the pride and optimism of a newly self-governing Nigeria.
Just 20 at the time, and the youngest contestant, Anieze was fluent in English, French, and several local languages. She had previously held the title of Miss Ibadan and entered the national competition by chance, after someone submitted her name without her knowledge. Her charisma and smile won over judges and the public alike.
After her reign, she moved into broadcasting, first as a telephone operator before joining Western Nigeria Television and later the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), where she became a familiar face as an announcer, compere, and actress in 1970s–80s productions such as Adio Family. She later transitioned into beauty consultancy.
In 1968, she married British colleague Norman Peter Adams, becoming Mrs. Rosemary Adams. In later years, she remained active in the Anioma community, speaking at cultural events and urging Nigerian women to uphold dignity and perseverance.
Through her crown, career, and cultural contributions, Anieze-Adams came to embody the grace, ambition, and new identity of post-colonial Nigeria.
