A 22-year-old Nigerian, Somtochi Ugorji, has emerged as the Best Graduating Student at Loyola Marymount University in the United States.
Taking to his official Twitter account on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, the presidential candidate of the Labour party, Peter Obi, congratulated Ugorji on the remarkable feat.
“I sincerely congratulate Obioma Somtochi Ugorji, the young Nigerian boy who emerged as the best-graduating student of Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, California, USA in 2023. I rejoice with him for achieving this great feat in education,” he wrote.
Ugorji not only proved his worth in education but also demonstrated his pride and confidence in his Nigerian origin, showcasing the true Nigerian spirit of unity, resilience, and hard work. His achievement has brought honor to the nation.
“As a strong advocate of education, I am confident that millions of Nigerian youths are smart, and if we make adequate investments in education, we will be able to raise a smart and more productive generation and build a progressive nation.
“Obioma’s achievement will inspire many youths in Nigeria and beyond to strive harder for success. I wish him well in his future endeavors.” Peter Obi wrote.
I sincerely congratulate Obioma Somtochi Ugorji, the young Nigerian boy who emerged as the 2023 best-graduating student of Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, California, USA. I rejoice with him for achieving this great feat in education. pic.twitter.com/kzwcPPjvQc
— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) May 24, 2023
Another highlight of the ceremony was when Ugorji, during his valedictorian speech, proudly identified himself as Nigerian from the Igbo tribe.
Ugorji explained to the audience that in Igbo land, the phrase ‘Igbo Kwenu’ serves as an endorsement and agreement.
He then proceeded to teach those present the appropriate response to be used when he chants ‘Igbo Kwenu,’ and they enthusiastically followed his instructions.
“My family is from the Igbo tribe, and in our culture, we have a phrase called ‘Igbo Kwenu.’ It represents the collective strength and unity that the Igbo people share,” he said in part.
Watch video below.
