About Program

The Systemic Impact Fellowship is a prestigious opportunity for rising impact leaders from Nigeria to work with the Nigerian Center’s Policy & Advocacy Department in Washington, DC for 6–12 months. This fellowship is designed to help fellows understand how systemic impact is created through the legislative process, policy advocacy, and scaled direct services. Fellows will develop systemic thinking and strategic capacities while deepening their knowledge of U.S. immigration policy. The program equips them with practical tools to shape policy and drive change both within the Nigerian American community and back home in Nigeria.

Fellows will directly support the Nigerian Center’s key policy priorities:

  • Strengthening U.S.–Nigeria relations

  • Elevating the African immigrant community as a policy priority

  • Expanding financial inclusion opportunities for African immigrant communities

Program Overview

Fellows will engage in:

  • 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

Upon completion, fellows will return to Nigeria and receive post-fellowship support to transfer their knowledge and experience to a Nigerian public or private institution with the goal of creating long-term systemic impact.

Eligibility & Qualifications

  • Recent graduate (within the last 3 years) with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, African Studies, Law, International Relations, or a related field from a Nigerian university

  • Under 30 years of age at the time of application

  • 1–2 years of relevant experience in policy research, advocacy, community organizing, or nonprofit work (internships and volunteer work accepted)

  • Currently based in Nigeria at the time of application

  • Strong commitment to return to Nigeria and apply lessons learned locally

Benefits

  • Selected fellows will receive:

    • Full Sponsorship – including international travel, housing, health insurance, and a monthly stipend throughout the fellowship

    • Professional Development – hands-on training, mentorship, and access to high-level policy and advocacy networks

    • Post-Fellowship Support – guidance on transferring knowledge and skills to public or private sector institutions in Nigeria

Timeline

  • Applications Open: October 20, 2025

  • Information Session: November 5, 2025

  • Application Deadline: December 22, 2025

  • Fellow Selection & Announcement: January 30, 2026

  • Fellowship Commencement: March 1, 2026