The best graduating student at Loyola Marymount University in the United States is Somtochi Ugorji, a 22-year-old Nigerian.
On May 24, 2023, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, commended Ugorji on his outstanding achievement via his official Twitter account.
“I genuinely congratulate Obioma Somtochi Ugorji, the young Nigerian child who won the title of Loyola Marymount University’s top graduating student in 2023 in Los Angeles, California, USA. I celebrate with him for accomplishing this outstanding educational milestone,” he stated.
Ugorji displayed the authentic Nigerian spirit of cohesion, resiliency, and labour-intensiveness while also proving his value as a student and expressing his pride and confidence in his Nigerian heritage. His accomplishment has raised the nation’s profile.
“As a fervent supporter of education, I am certain that millions of Nigerian youths are intelligent, and if we make sufficient educational investments, we will be able to produce an intelligent and more productive generation and create a progressive country.
“Obioma’s achievements will motivate many young people in Nigeria and beyond to work harder to achieve success. I’ll be thinking about him in his future undertakings. By Peter Obi.
I heartily congratulate Obioma Somtochi Ugorji, a young Nigerian boy who was named Loyola Marymount University’s top graduating student in 2023 in Los Angeles, California, USA. I celebrate with him for accomplishing this outstanding educational milestone. pic.twitter.com/kzwcPPjvQc
Another memorable moment of the ceremony occurred when Ugorji openly acknowledged his Nigerian heritage and Igbo tribe during his valedictorian speech.
The expression “Igbo Kwenu” denotes approval and agreement in Igbo territory, according to Ugorji, who expressed this to the audience.
He then went on to coach those in attendance on the proper reaction to utilise when he yells “Igbo Kwenu,” and they eagerly followed his directions.
“My family belongs to the Igbo tribe, and we have a saying in our language called “Igbo Kwenu.” It stands for the Igbo people’s collective power and solidarity, he stated, in part.
