Nigerian Centre Launches ‘Washington’s Prosperity’ Campaign Celebrating Immigrants as Pillars of D.C.’s Economy

The Nigerian Centre has rolled out a bold new initiative — Washington’s Prosperity Campaign — aimed at amplifying the vital role of immigrants, particularly Nigerian Americans, in shaping the economic and cultural landscape of the Washington, D.C. metro area.

Launched during Black Business Month, the campaign intentionally bridges the historical legacy of African American entrepreneurship with the present-day achievements of African immigrants, spotlighting their contributions to innovation, job creation, and community growth.

“Washington’s Prosperity is more than a campaign — it’s a call to honour our shared values, especially the value of prosperity. Immigrants are not just part of D.C.’s story; they are helping write the next chapter,” said Gbenga Ogunjimi, Executive Director of the Nigerian Centre.

Through this initiative, the Centre seeks to drive awareness around issues of financial inclusion, immigrant justice, and cultural empowerment for communities from Black-majority nations. A key feature of the campaign includes a striking public showcase of five Nigerian American entrepreneurs whose success stories are now visible across Metro buses, trains, and stations throughout the city.

Among the featured entrepreneurs is Dr. Gina Paige, President and Co-founder of African Ancestry, Inc., who reflected on her deep connection to the campaign.

“This partnership with the Nigerian Centre is both professional and personal,” she said. “African Ancestry’s mission to reconnect descendants of forced African immigrants with their roots aligns beautifully with this initiative. Personally, I’ve traced my maternal lineage to the Fulani people of Nigeria, making this even more meaningful.”

Tony Ijaodola, founder of The Continent DC, a vibrant Nigerian restaurant near the White House, emphasized his broader cultural vision.

“We’re not just representing Nigeria — we’re representing Africa. The goal is for our guests to feel like they’re experiencing the entire continent the moment they step through our doors,” he shared.

Also spotlighted is Ifeoma C. Onyia, the first African immigrant to open a winery in the United States.

“With over 11,000 wineries in the U.S., fewer than one percent are minority-owned,” she noted. “There’s a significant gap — and a growing need — for diversity in agriculture and winemaking. Our voices matter in this space.”

Eze Okwodu, a successful D.C. realtor, spoke candidly about the lack of mentorship in immigrant communities and how it shaped his mission.

“It took me seven years to buy my first property because I had no mentor,” he said. “That experience inspired me to start educating others about real estate. America has allowed me to give back by empowering others.”

Meanwhile, Ayomide Ibrahim, CEO of FinServe Pro, highlighted the campaign’s role in narrative ownership.

“I’m here not just as a financial advisor or CEO — I’m here as a proud immigrant. If we don’t share our own stories, others will tell them for us — and not always truthfully,” he said.

The campaign is backed by several advocacy and community organizations, including the National Partnership for New Americans, African Communities Together, and AsylumWorks. It arrives at a crucial moment, as U.S. lawmakers seek data-informed strategies to reform immigration policy.

According to recent insights from the DC Fiscal Policy Institute, immigrants are essential drivers of the region’s economy. Nigerian Americans, in particular, lead in key sectors such as healthcare, education, technology, and finance.

The Nigerian Centre is calling on the public to support immigrant-led businesses, contribute to organizations that serve immigrant communities, and champion fair immigration policies that protect and empower newcomers.