The Nigerian Centre will on Thursday launch a major narrative-shifting initiative in the heart of Washington, DC, to spotlight the contributions of immigrant entrepreneurs, especially Nigerian Americans, to the city’s economic vibrancy.
Tagged Washington’s Prosperity Campaign, the initiative is built around the District’s long-standing ethos of shared prosperity. The launch will take the form of a press conference scheduled for Thursday, July 24, at 11:30 a.m. at The Continent DC, 1110 Vermont Avenue NW.
At the centre of the campaign are five Nigerian American entrepreneurs, whose stories of innovation, enterprise, and resilience form the foundation of a wider message: that immigrants remain central to the economic and social development of the Washington metropolitan area.
“This campaign is not just about individuals, it is about the ecosystem of hope, hard work, and homebuilding that immigrants bring to this city,” said Tirrea Billings, Digital Storyteller for the Nigerian Centre. “Our goal is to shift the narrative and reaffirm the truth that Washington’s prosperity is inextricably linked to its immigrant communities.”
The event will bring together Nigerian American entrepreneurs, community leaders, policy makers, and economic justice advocates. It is expected to serve as both a celebration and a strategic call to acknowledge the roles immigrants play in driving growth, fostering innovation, and creating jobs in the region.
Organisers said the event will feature short presentations and personal stories that shed light on how immigrant entrepreneurs contribute across sectors such as tech, health, retail, and creative industries. The campaign will also underscore broader themes of equity and inclusion in economic policymaking.
The Nigerian Centre, headquartered in Washington, DC, has long championed immigrant issues, particularly those affecting the Nigerian diaspora. It is leveraging the campaign to advocate for policies that support small businesses, inclusive development, and cross-cultural engagement.
“This is about visibility, recognition, and empowerment,” said one of the campaign’s featured entrepreneurs, who is expected to speak at the event. “We are here, we are building, and we are helping define the future of this city.”
The launch comes amid national conversations around immigration, entrepreneurship, and diversity in economic policy. Washington, DC, home to one of the most diverse immigrant populations in the country, continues to serve as a hub for immigrant-led businesses.
Members of the media are invited to attend. A media kit is available for download via the Nigerian Centre’s official platforms. For further details, journalists may contact [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected])
The event is expected to conclude at 12:30 p.m. and will be followed by a networking opportunity with key stakeholders.
