President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson, two British-Nigerians recently elected and inaugurated as mayors in London, praising their outstanding service and dedication to their communities.
In a statement released on Wednesday by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu lauded the new mayors for upholding the values of honesty, integrity, hard work, and commitment. He described their achievements as inspiring examples for young Nigerians both at home and abroad.
“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,” the President said.
Bright, who was sworn in as the Civic Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, made history as the borough’s youngest-ever mayor at age 29. Her seven years of community service include becoming the borough’s youngest Labour councillor at 22 in 2018.
Jackson, meanwhile, became the first Nigerian-born Mayor of Islington since its establishment in 1900. He has had a swift rise in local government, being elected as a councillor in 2022 and appointed Chair of Islington’s Homes and Communities Committee in 2023 before assuming the mayoral position.
President Tinubu expressed confidence in their leadership and the positive impact they will bring to their boroughs, encouraging them to continue serving with distinction.
The elections mark significant milestones for Nigerians in the diaspora, highlighting their growing influence and contribution in international political arenas.
