Veteran Nollywood actor, lawyer and former Delta State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), has been appointed Honorary Brand Ambassador of the Nigerian Center, a Washington, D.C.-based civic institution advancing social justice, culture and opportunities for Nigerian and African diaspora communities in the United States.
The appointment, announced on Monday, recognises Mofe-Damijo’s contributions to the arts, public service and his longstanding commitment to promoting the image and interests of Nigerians globally.
In addition to the appointment, the Nigerian Center also conferred its 2026 Honorary Recognition Award on the veteran actor in recognition of his leadership, charitable initiatives, cultural contributions and role in elevating Nigeria’s global image.
As Honorary Brand Ambassador, Mofe-Damijo will support the Nigerian Center’s mission of advancing immigrant justice, preserving Nigerian culture and expanding economic opportunities for Black immigrants in the United States.
Announcing the appointment, Executive Director of the Nigerian Center, Gbenga Ogunjimi, described the actor as a fitting representative of Nigerian excellence.
“For generations, Richard Mofe-Damijo has represented the very best of Nigerian excellence through his talent, integrity, service, and cultural pride. His influence extends far beyond film. He has helped shape how the world sees Nigeria and inspired millions across the African diaspora.”
Ogunjimi added that the organisation was honoured to welcome the Nollywood icon into the role.
“We are honored to welcome him as an Honorary Brand Ambassador of the Nigerian Center. There is no one better positioned to partner with us in elevating and globally evangelizing the Nigerian story in the United States and beyond. Richard Mofe-Damijo embodies the excellence, resilience, and cultural influence that define the Nigerian brand at its very best.”
The Nigerian Center said Mofe-Damijo joins the organisation at what it described as a historic period for Nigerian Americans and Black immigrants in the United States.
According to the organisation, he will work with the Center on initiatives aimed at promoting Nigerian culture and heritage, encouraging civic engagement and highlighting the contributions of Nigerian Americans and Black immigrants to American society.
Responding to the appointment, Mofe-Damijo described the recognition as a privilege and pledged to support the organisation’s vision.
“Being named an Honorary Brand Ambassador of the Nigerian Center is truly an honor. I am proud to be part of the history being made and to lend my voice to an organization that is creating a meaningful change for our community.”
He said the establishment of the Nigerian Center was long overdue, given the significant contributions Nigerians have made across different sectors in the United States.
“The vision of the Nigerian Center is long overdue for a people with such a rich history of coming to the United States and making extraordinary contributions across every field: from academia, science, and business to public service, healthcare, entrepreneurship, technology, and the arts.”
Highlighting the importance of cultural influence in global affairs, the veteran actor said the institution would play a pivotal role in shaping perceptions of Nigeria.
“In an era where soft power shapes global influence, the Nigerian Center is uniquely positioned to elevate the Nigerian narrative in the United States and around the world. By telling our story, preserving our culture, and amplifying the contributions of Nigerian Americans, the Center is building an institution that will inspire generations to come. I am excited to be part of this collective effort.”
The Nigerian Center said Mofe-Damijo would be formally honoured at a forthcoming award ceremony in Washington, D.C., where community leaders, elected officials and stakeholders from the Nigerian-American community are expected to celebrate his appointment and contributions.
Widely regarded as one of the founding icons of Nollywood, Mofe-Damijo has enjoyed a decades-long career in film, public service and law, helping to shape modern African cinema while inspiring audiences across the world.
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