The Systemic Impact Fellowship 2026 is a prestigious, fully sponsored opportunity for rising impact leaders from Nigeria to work with the Nigerian Center’s Policy & Advocacy Department in Washington, DC, for 6–12 months. This fellowship is designed to deepen fellows’ understanding of how systemic change happens through legislation, policy advocacy, and large-scale community interventions.
Fellows gain hands-on experience in U.S. policymaking, immigration reform, cross-national relations, and narrative change—all while developing strategic leadership and systemic thinking capacities. After the program, fellows return to Nigeria equipped to drive long-term public or private-sector transformation.
What the Fellowship Focuses On
During the programme, fellows will support and advance the Nigerian Center’s top policy priorities:
- Strengthening U.S.–Nigeria relations
- Positioning African immigrants as a national policy priority
- Expanding financial inclusion for African immigrant communities
This fellowship offers a rare platform for Nigerian changemakers to influence national-level conversations and develop expertise in global policy systems.
Programme Overview
Fellows participate in a rigorous combination of research, advocacy, public engagement, and legislative observation.
1. Federal & State Policy Research
- Research U.S.–Nigeria relations, immigration justice, and African immigrant issues.
- Participate in Capitol Hill engagements and policy briefings.
2. Policy Advocacy
- Support DC Council testimonies and state-level advocacy.
- Attend meetings with elected officials and join policy coalitions.
3. Media & Narrative Campaigns
- Contribute to public messaging, storytelling, and narrative-shaping efforts.
- Help highlight Nigerian and African immigrant contributions to U.S. society.
4. Community Education & Outreach
- Support “Know Your Rights” workshops.
- Assist with legal services outreach and community information sessions.
5. Legislative Observations
- Observe the U.S. legislative process firsthand.
- Learn how advocacy groups influence systemic change.
Post-Fellowship Impact
After completing the fellowship, participants return to Nigeria and receive post-fellowship support to:
- Transfer policy knowledge locally
- Join public-sector or private-sector institutions
- Strengthen Nigeria’s policy ecosystem
ALSO APPLY FOR:
Fully-Funded UPG Sustainability Leadership Programme 2026
Eligibility & Qualifications
To qualify for the Systemic Impact Fellowship 2026, applicants must:
- Hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (within the last 3 years) in Public Policy, Political Science, African Studies, Law, International Relations, or related fields from a Nigerian university
- Be under 30 years old at the time of application
- Have 1–2 years of experience in policy research, advocacy, community organising, or nonprofit work (internships/volunteering accepted)
- Be currently based in Nigeria during the application period
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to returning to Nigeria post-fellowship
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows receive a comprehensive package designed to support their professional growth and well-being.
Full Sponsorship
- International travel
- Housing in Washington, DC
- Health insurance
- Monthly stipend
Professional Development
- Hands-on training in policy and advocacy
- Mentorship from senior policy experts
- Access to high-level advocacy and legislative networks
Post-Fellowship Support
- Guidance on reintegration into Nigeria’s public or private institutions
- Support in applying fellowship learning to national development
Fellowship Timeline
- Applications Open: October 20, 2025
- Information Session: November 5, 2025
- Application Deadline: December 22, 2025
- Fellow Selection & Announcement: January 30, 2026
- Fellowship Commencement: March 1, 2026
APPLY FOR THE SYSTEMIC IMPACT FELLOWSHIP
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