18-year-old Shatu Garko, who hails from Kano State, has won the 44th Miss Nigeria.

Shatu Garko was a Hijab model before she was crowned Miss Nigeria.

A top of 37 participants from different states of Nigeria were selected in the early stage of the pageant competition.

From that, another top 18 contestants for the 44th Miss Nigeria were chosen to compete on the last day which was Friday night.

Garko made it to the top eight as a participant from the North West region, alongside other seven participants.

Garko, who loves riding horses, wants to prove that religion is not a barrier to pursuing one’s dream.

As the 44th Miss Nigeria, Garko walks home with N10 million, a brand new car, 1-year residency in a luxury apartment.

See photos of Shatu and watch the moment she won the pageant below…