According to a report by Vanguard, Janine Udogu, also known as Nwanyiocha, has become deeply cherished by the Igbo community in Isuofia, Anambra State, Nigeria. Her journey to becoming a beloved figure in her adopted home is both inspiring and captivating.
Janine's story began in Switzerland in 2008, where she met her future husband, Ezenwa Udogu, a Nigerian national. Their initial meeting was brief, but fate brought them together multiple times until they decided to exchange contact information. They married in 2012 and initially settled in Switzerland for a few years. However, an agreement during their marriage led them to relocate to Nigeria in 2014.
Initially hesitant about moving to Nigeria, Janine was mindful of the negative perceptions often portrayed about the country abroad, including concerns about security and living conditions, which caused apprehension among her family and friends. Despite these reservations, Janine and Ezenwa were resolute in ensuring their children grew up immersed in their Igbo heritage and fluent in the Igbo language. This commitment played a pivotal role in their decision to relocate.
Upon arriving in Nigeria, Janine discovered a reality that contrasted sharply with the narratives commonly portrayed in the media. She found a country rich in warmth, culture, and potential. She emphasized that the narrative about Nigeria, both in Europe and at home, is often one-sided. When her family hesitated to attend her village wedding due to security concerns, Janine felt compelled to alter that perception.
Janine took to social media to share her experiences, showcasing the beauty and cultural depth of Nigerian life. Her posts quickly gained traction, attracting attention from people eager to hear her unique perspective. She highlighted the strengths of the Igbo community, such as the solidarity among Umuada (an association of daughters married outside their home) and the significance of preserving Igbo language and culture.
Living in Nigeria has not been without its challenges. Some Nigerians were puzzled by her decision to settle in a country they sought to leave. Janine explained that for many Nigerians, it was difficult to understand why she chose to live there when they were striving to leave. Nevertheless, Janine's determination to instill her children with their heritage and her husband's desire to grow old in his homeland kept their focus unwavering.
( Photo credit : The Vanguard Newspaper Verified Facebook Page )
As per The Vanguard, she remarked, "The story is one-sided about Nigeria in Europe and in my country," she explains. "When none of my family members wanted to attend my wedding in the village for fear of security issues, I felt there was a need to change the narrative a bit."
"For Nigerians, it was very difficult for some people to understand how I could want to live here when they are trying everything possible to get out of Nigeria."