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 promoting social justice, Nigerian culture and opportunities for Nigerian and African diaspora communities in the United States.
The appointment, announced on Monday, recognised Mofe-Damijo’s outstanding contributions to the arts, public service and his longstanding commitment to promoting Nigeria’s image on the global stage.
The Nigerian Center also presented the veteran actor with its 2026 Honorary Recognition Award in appreciation of his leadership, humanitarian efforts, cultural contributions and role in enhancing Nigeria’s international reputation.
As Honorary Brand Ambassador, RMD will support the organisation’s mission of advancing immigrant justice, preserving Nigerian culture and expanding economic opportunities for Black immigrants in the United States.
Announcing the appointment, the Executive Director of the Nigerian Center, Gbenga Ogunjimi, described the Nollywood icon as a true symbol 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, ” he said.
Ogunjimi added that the organisation was honoured to welcome the veteran actor into the role.
“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, ” he said.
According to the Nigerian Center, Mofe-Damijo joins the organisation at a significant moment for Nigerian Americans and Black immigrant communities in the United States.
He is expected to champion initiatives that promote Nigerian culture and heritage, encourage civic engagement and showcase the achievements of Nigerians in America.
Reacting to the appointment, Mofe-Damijo described the recognition as a privilege and pledged his support for 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 meaningful change for our community, ” he said.
The veteran actor said the establishment of the Nigerian Center was long overdue, considering the remarkable contributions Nigerians have made across various 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, ” he said.
RMD also stressed the importance of cultural influence in shaping global perceptions.
“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, ” he said.
The Nigerian Center disclosed that Mofe-Damijo will be formally honoured at a forthcoming ceremony in Washington, D.C., where community leaders, elected officials and members of the Nigerian-American community are expected to celebrate his appointment and contributions.
Widely regarded as one of the founding icons of Nollywood, Richard Mofe-Damijo has built a distinguished career spanning film, law and public service, earning admiration as one of Nigeria’s most influential cultural figures.
