President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson, two British-Nigerians recently sworn in as mayors in London.
Tinubu praised their achievements as a reflection of the positive contributions Nigerians in the diaspora continue to make globally.
The message was conveyed in a statement released Wednesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. In it, Tinubu commended the duo for “sustaining the legacy of good works by Nigerians in the diaspora” and upholding values such as honesty, integrity, hard work, and dedication to public service.
According to the President, their accomplishments will serve as motivation for young people in Nigeria and around the world to strive for excellence and positively impact their communities.
“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,” Tinubu said.
At just 29, Bright became the youngest-ever Civic Mayor of Barking and Dagenham. Her journey in public service began in 2018 when she became the borough’s youngest Labour councillor at 22.
Jackson, on the other hand, made history as the first Nigerian-born Mayor of Islington since the borough was established in 1900. Elected as a councillor in 2022, he rose quickly to become Chair of Islington’s Homes and Communities Committee in 2023.
New Mayors React
Jackson, in an Instagram post following his inauguration, shared the significance of his journey from Nigeria to becoming Islington’s first citizen.
“I was officially sworn in as Mayor of Islington. It was a proud, humbling, and unforgettable moment attended by family and friends globally.
“From a little village in Nigeria to Islington’s first citizen, this is more than a personal milestone. It’s a reminder that with faith, community, and determination, no dream is too distant.
“As Mayor, I’m here to serve with purpose and passion. I’ll champion our diverse communities, support families and young people, uplift local businesses, and ensure everyone in Islington feels seen and heard,” he wrote.
Likewise, Bright marked her inauguration as mayor of Barking and Dagenham with a heartfelt message titled “History Made.”
“An unforgettable day as I was officially inaugurated as the Mayor of Barking and Dagenham. When you begin your journey with God at the centre, every step is covered. At just 29, I’ve decided to take a year out of my corporate career to give back to the Borough that raised me—not just as a Councillor, but now as your Mayor.
“Barking and Dagenham is my home, my heart, and my community. I’m deeply honoured to serve it. Being Mayor is more than a title—it’s a promise to be present, visible, and to uplift every corner of our Borough.
“Over the next year, I’ll be in our schools, with our residents, supporting local businesses, walking our high streets, and celebrating the people and places that make Barking and Dagenham extraordinary. Together, we’ll share our stories, raise our voices, and keep moving our borough forward. God bless Barking and Dagenham. Her Worshipful Madam Mayor.”
Since their appointments, Bright and Jackson have received widespread congratulations from Nigerians both at home and abroad.
What you should know
Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson, two British-Nigerians, have made history as mayors in London boroughs—Barking and Dagenham and Islington, respectively.
President Tinubu hailed their achievements as a proud moment for Nigerians in the diaspora, commending their commitment to service and community development.
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