A 29-year-old Nigerian-British woman, Princess Opeyemi Bright, has made history by becoming the youngest Mayor in the United Kingdom.
Princess Bright was officially sworn in on Friday, May 16, as the First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, she said her new role is a result of God’s grace and a way to honour her roots.
“This is nothing short of God’s grace,” she said during her inauguration.
“I’m proud to serve my borough, and as a proud Nigerian, I will represent my heritage with humility and excellence. May this journey inspire others to lead, serve, and rise.”
Bright’s journey in politics began when she was just 22. She was elected as a councillor and has spent the last seven years working to support young people, promote inclusion, and create better job opportunities in her community.
Her parents also have a strong background in public service. Her mother, Dr. Afolasade Bright, was once the Civic Mayor of Hackney, while her father, Pastor Gbolahan Bright MBE, is a senior minister in the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Many Nigerians in the diaspora have been praised for their rising roles in politics across the world. From Kemi Badenoch, the UK’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade, to Chi Onwurah, a Labour MP, and Esther Agbaje, a US Representative in Minnesota, Nigerians are making their mark globally.
Princess Bright’s election has also been seen as proof that young people and women can lead effectively.
Her story is now being used as a source of encouragement to Nigerian youths to take up leadership roles and to the government to support more diaspora involvement in national growth.
Observers believe that Nigeria can benefit more by building stronger ties with its citizens abroad, especially those making impact in politics, business, and public service.
Princess Bright’s victory has become a symbol of hope, not just for young women and the Nigerian community in the UK, but also for many others around the world who believe in hard work, service, and excellence.
