The Nigerian Center has said that the United States Department of Justice officially recognised it as a group to assist individuals with immigration applications.
The recognition came through the DOJ Executive Office for Immigration Review, through the Federal Recognition and Accreditation Program.
According to a statement obtained by Diaspora Tales during the week, the designation authorises the center to provide free-to-low-cost immigration legal services through DOJ-accredited representatives, expanding access to legal support for immigrant communities in Washington, DC and beyond.
“DOJ recognition is the gold-standard credential for non-profit immigration legal service providers in the United States, confirming that an organisation meets rigorous federal standards to deliver ethical and competent legal assistance.
“For African diaspora communities, this milestone is especially significant as there are very few DOJ-recognised Black-led organisations nationwide.
“The designation strengthens and expands the center’s existing walk-in immigration clinic and legal service initiatives.
“The Nigerian Center’s recognition helps address a longstanding gap in culturally responsive immigration legal services for African and Black immigrant populations and strengthens representation for these communities within the broader legal services landscape.”
