Why Every Igbo Bride Gets a Broom

Ndeewo Nwanne,

In the Igbo tradition, when a bride leaves for her husband’s home, she never goes empty-handed.

She carries love, support… and a mortar and broom.

🧺 Idu Ụlọ: The Igbo Tradition Empowering Brides

"Idu Ụlọ / Idu Ụnọ" also known as Ikwa Ngwa Ụlọ—which means “home set-up support gifts”—is a ceremony where the bride’s family gifts her tools for her new life.

What’s typically included?

• A broom (order & cleanliness)

• A mortar & pestle (nourishment & provision)

• Cooking utensils (family care)

• A low stool (stability and patience)

It’s an emotional reminder that her community stands firmly behind her.

🌍 How It Has Evolved

Today’s Igbo brides might receive:

• Fridges

• Sewing machines

• Gas cookers

• Or even digital gifts like online subscriptions

But the meaning stays the same:
Support, respect, and the collective power of Ụmụnna bụ ike – “There is strength in Kinsmen (family).”

💡 Why This Tradition Still Matters

Whether you’re in Lagos or London, this ritual empowers women to step into marriage with:

• Confidence (You are prepared)

• Cultural pride (You carry tradition)

• Family support (You are never alone)

Women’s Month Spotlight: Margaret Ekpo

Margaret Ekpo, born July 27, 1914, in Creek Town, Cross River State, was an Igbo and Efik heritage woman who became a pioneering female politician in Nigeria. She was a key figure in the struggle for Nigerian independence and women's rights, founding the Aba Market Women Association and serving in the Eastern Regional House of Assembly. Ekpo was a leading member of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) and advocated for gender equity and human rights. She died on September 21, 2006

🎯 Your Igbo Heritage Toolkit

To help you or your family stay connected to Igbo culture, here’s this week’s cultural toolbox:

🔹 Igbo Sounds Workshop – Master Igbo pronunciation confidently.
🔹 Igbo Dictionary Videos – A child-friendly tool to complement Igbo learning.
🔹 Proverbs for Daily Life – Learn and apply 38 authentic Igbo proverbs.

🛍️ Get started today → Learn Igbo Now

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to connecting with you in the next edition!

P.S. If you found this newsletter valuable, share it with a friend who loves Igbo culture. Let’s grow together!

Ya gazie,

Yvonne Chiọma Mbanefo
Editor, Echiche Igbo Newsletter

www.learnigbonow.com