Washington DC Declares October Nigerian American Heritage Month

Washington, DC, has proclaimed October 2026 as Nigerian American Heritage Month and October 1 as Nigeria Day in recognition of the contributions of Nigerians to the city.

The proclamation was presented by the District of Columbia’s Secretary, Kimberly A. Bassett, on behalf of Mayor Muriel Bowser during the 66th Nigerian Independence Day dinner held at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington, DC.

Bassett said the Nigerian community had made significant contributions to the city through business, public service, culture and traditions.

“Nigeria holds a very special place in our city. This is why we are also celebrating the incredible contributions of the Nigerian community here in DC. Nigerians have built businesses, served our neighbourhoods, and enriched our city through their culture and traditions,” she said.

She commended Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States, Kayode Are, and his wife, Ngozi Are, for hosting the event, highlighting the ambassador’s engagement with local public schools and efforts to make the embassy accessible to the Washington community.

Bassett also praised the Nigerian Centre for its role in educating new Nigerian immigrants and helping them settle into their new environment.

The proclamation, presented to Ambassador Are, recognised the contributions of more than 4,000 Nigerian-born residents in the district and acknowledged the ambassador’s leadership.

It described Nigeria as “Africa’s most populous country, its largest democracy, and home to more than 300 ethnic groups.”

The document also celebrated Nigerian Americans’ contributions as civic leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators across fields including art, music, medicine, science and technology.

Bassett said the Nigerian Embassy and organisations such as the Nigerian Centre had helped expose Washington residents to Nigerian culture and strengthen ties between the two communities.

“We are deeply grateful for all that you do for Washington, DC,” she said.

The event attracted dignitaries, members of the Nigerian diaspora and friends of Nigeria. It marked the country’s 66th Independence Day and highlighted the growing relationship between Nigeria and the United States.