Nigerian Center Launches Systemic Impact Fellowship to Develop the Next Generation of Nigerian Policy Leaders in Washington, DC
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 14, 2025
Nkechi Ilechie
Policy Director
Email: nkechi@nigeriancenter.org
Washington, DC — The Nigerian Center proudly announces the launch of its flagship Systemic Impact Fellowship Program, designed to cultivate a new generation of Nigerian policy and advocacy leaders.
This prestigious 6–12 month fellowship, hosted at the Nigerian Center’s headquarters on Capitol Hill, immerses fellows in U.S. policy, advocacy, and systems-level change work. Participants will develop systemic thinking and strategic leadership capacities while deepening their understanding of U.S. immigration policy. Fellows will gain practical tools to influence policy and drive impact within the Nigerian American community and, upon their return, to strengthen governance and advocacy institutions in Nigeria.
Fellows receive full sponsorship covering international travel, housing, health insurance, and a monthly stipend, along with mentorship and professional development opportunities in Washington, DC.
Hosted at the Nigerian Center’s headquarters on Capitol Hill, this fellowship offers participants a unique opportunity to work alongside the Center’s Policy and Advocacy team, engage with U.S. legislators, and contribute to high-level advocacy campaigns focused on immigration justice, U.S.–Nigeria relations, and financial inclusion for African immigrants.
“This program is about building systemic thinkers and equipping young leaders to engage at the highest levels of policy and advocacy. Our fellows will gain firsthand exposure to the U.S. legislative process, participate in coalition work, and help shape public narratives that impact immigrant communities. When they return to Nigeria, they will be positioned to bring that knowledge home and transform institutions there.”
- Gbenga Ogunjimi,
Executive Director of the Nigerian Center
Program Highlights
Federal & State Policy Research – Conducting research on immigration justice and U.S.–Nigeria relations, including engagement on Capitol Hill
Policy Advocacy – Supporting state-level efforts such as DC Council testimonies, meetings with elected officials, and coalition participation
Media & Narrative Campaigns – Helping shape public discourse on immigration and Nigerian American contributions to the nation’s economic, cultural, and civic life.
Community Education – Assisting with “Know Your Rights” workshops, legal services outreach, and immigrant community updates
Legislative Observations – Gaining insight into the U.S. legislative process and the role of advocacy organizations in achieving systemic change
Who Should Apply:
The program is open to recent graduates (within the last 3 years) under the age of 30 with degrees in Public Policy, Political Science, Law, International Relations, African Studies, or related fields from Nigerian universities. Applicants must be based in Nigeria and committed to returning home after the fellowship to apply their experience.
How to Apply:
Prospective applicants and organizations interested in partnership are invited to attend the virtual information session on November 5, 2025.
Registration: www.nigeriancenter.org/systemic-impact-fellowship
Information Session: https://www.nigeriancenter.org/events/sif-infosession
About the Nigerian Center:
The Nigerian Center is a Washington, DC–based nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing immigrant justice, financial empowerment, and cultural visibility. Through legal services, advocacy, and education, the Center amplifies Nigerian and African immigrant voices and fosters systemic inclusion in American society. The Center exists on a simple premise: the current generation of Black immigrants does not have to repeat the struggles of the past, and our core purpose is to change that narrative. We exist to advance the well-being of Black immigrants in Greater Washington and beyond who face systemic barriers in immigration policy, legal access, and economic opportunity.
“NIGERIAN CENTER” is a registered trademark of Nigerian Center Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in the United States of America.