Nigeria, Nov. 14 -- At least two African countries will not be represented at the 75th Miss Universe pageant after their contestants failed to obtain the approval required to travel to Puerto Rico.

Zambia and the Republic of the Congo have withdrawn their representatives, while contestants from Zimbabwe and South Sudan remain uncertain about participating in the competition's grand finale on 24 November.

The difficulties arise from United States entry and visa restrictions affecting several African countries. Puerto Rico is a US territory, meaning contestants travelling there must comply with applicable US immigration requirements.

Nigeria is also among the countries affected by partial restrictions, but its representative, Danielle Ad...