Washington, D.C. Proclaims October 1, 2024, as "Nigerian American Day"

Washington, D.C. — Mayor Muriel Bowser has issued a proclamation declaring Tuesday, October 1, 2024, as “Nigerian American Day” in the District of Columbia. This proclamation honors the rich cultural heritage and significant contributions of the Nigerian American community to both the nation’s capital and the United States.

In celebration of this occasion, the Nigerian Center will host a press conference on October 1, 2024, at 12 noon at the center located at 1231 Marion Barry Avenue, Washington, DC 20020. The event will highlight the significance of the day and showcase the Nigerian Center's initiatives, including legal services, credit-building programs, tax preparation, homeownership support, cultural programs, and policy advocacy initiatives.

The press conference will feature remarks from key dignitaries, including Kimberley Bassett, Secretary of the District of Columbia, and Ambassador Rabio Lawal, Chargé d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy in Washington, DC. The event will also bring together Nigerian Center partners such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), African Ancestry, the Mayor’s Office of African Affairs, Events DC, and other Nigerian American organizations.

Gbenga Ogunjimi, Executive Director of the Nigerian Center, stated, "As we celebrate Nigeria’s independence and Nigerian American Day, we reflect on the Nigerian Center’s role as a pillar of support within our community. Just a few years ago, there was no such center dedicated to advancing our community's interests. Whether championing immigration justice, providing financial and homeownership programs, or fostering cultural initiatives, the Nigerian Center is reshaping our narrative in America and forging new paths for emerging Nigerian Americans."

To participate in the event, please contact BlueJay Media at info@BlueJay.Media and register at www.nigeriancenter.org/events/nad2024 

The full proclamation from Mayor Bowser is available below.