SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — David Djovakpor (JOH-vak’ poyr) says he felt like he was “born new” when he took an oath to become a U.S. citizen.

The 36-year-old who is originally from Togo was one of 57 immigrants who officially became American citizens at a ceremony Friday at the Old State Capitol in Springfield. The new citizens represented 29 different countries.