President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson, two British-Nigerians who were recently sworn in as mayors in London, stating that their achievements reflect the positive contributions Nigerians in the diaspora continue to make.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu commended the duo for “sustaining the legacy of excellence established by Nigerians in the diaspora” and for exemplifying values such as honesty, integrity, diligence, and a strong commitment to public service.
According to the President, their stories will no doubt inspire countless young people, both in Nigeria and abroad, to strive for excellence and to play meaningful roles in their communities.
“On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I offer my heartfelt congratulations to Mayors Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson. I encourage you to continue giving your utmost in your new roles as the first citizens of Barking and Dagenham and Islington.
“I have full confidence in your abilities and look forward to the positive contributions you will make in your respective boroughs,” Tinubu said.
Bright, aged 29, made history as the youngest-ever Civic Mayor of Barking and Dagenham.
Her inauguration follows seven years of dedicated service to her community, beginning in 2018 when she became the borough’s youngest Labour councillor at the age of 22.
Jackson also reached a notable milestone, becoming the first Nigerian-born Mayor of Islington since the borough was established in 1900.
Elected as a councillor in 2022, he swiftly rose through the ranks and was appointed Chair of Islington’s Homes and Communities Committee in 2023.
New Mayors React
Following his swearing-in, Jackson shared a message on Instagram reflecting on 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 occasion attended by family and friends from across the globe.
“From a small village in Nigeria to Islington’s first citizen, this milestone represents more than personal achievement. It reminds us that with faith, community, and determination, no dream is too far-fetched.
“As Mayor, I intend to serve with purpose and passion. I will champion our diverse communities, support families and young people, uplift local businesses, and ensure everyone in Islington feels represented and heard,” he wrote.
Likewise, Opeyemi Bright commemorated her inauguration as Mayor of Barking and Dagenham with a heartfelt message titled “History Made.”
She wrote, “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 chosen to take a year away from 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 truly honoured to serve it. Being Mayor is more than a title—it’s a commitment to be present, to be seen, and to uplift every corner of our borough.
“Over the next year, I’ll be engaging with our schools, residents, local businesses, and high streets—celebrating the people and places that make Barking and Dagenham so special. Together, we’ll share our stories, raise our voices, and continue moving our borough forward. God bless Barking and Dagenham. Her Worshipful Madam Mayor.”
The election of both mayors has drawn a wave of congratulatory messages from Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.