May 21, (THEWILL) – Two British-Nigerians, Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson, have been inaugurated as mayors in London, marking significant milestones in the city’s local governance.
Bright was sworn in as the Civic Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, becoming the borough’s youngest-ever mayor at 29. Her inauguration follows seven years of dedicated service to the community. In 2018, at age 22, she made history as the borough’s youngest Labour councillor.
Jackson, on the other hand, made history as the first Nigerian-born Mayor of Islington since the borough’s establishment in 1900. His rapid rise in local politics saw him elected as a councillor in 2022, and appointed Chair of Islington’s Homes and Communities Committee in 2023.
Reacting to the development, President Bola Tinubu congratulated both mayors in a statement signed on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The President praised Bright and Jackson for upholding the legacy of excellence associated with Nigerians in the diaspora, noting their promotion of values such as honesty, integrity, hard work, and service to others.
“Their stories will inspire countless young people—both at home and abroad—to pursue excellence and serve their communities with distinction,” the statement read.
“On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Mayors Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson. I urge you to continue giving your best in your new roles as the first citizens of Barking and Dagenham, and Islington. I have every confidence in your abilities and look forward to the positive impact you will make in your respective boroughs,” President Tinubu said.
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