The moment US grads were taught Igbo by their Nigerian-born valedictorian was historically significant.
In his address, Ugorji, who was the valedictorian of the US university at the 2023 graduation ceremony, was able to reference his Igbo origin. He stressed his cultural roots and boldly identified himself as being from Nigeria.
"My family is from the Igbo tribe, and in our culture, we have a saying called "Igbo Kwenu"." Ugorji elaborated, saying that the term "Igbo Kwenu" denotes approval and agreement in Igbo territory. It stands for the Igbo people's overall power and unity.
He then instructed everyone in attendance on how to respond everytime he chanted "Igbo kwenu", and they did.
