Princess Opeyemi Bright, 29, has made history as the youngest mayor in the United Kingdom, becoming the First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.
VANGUARD
Princess Opeyemi Bright has become the youngest mayor in the United Kingdom at age 29, following her inauguration as First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.
The ceremony, held on Friday, May 16, marked a historic moment for the Nigerian diaspora and youth representation in British politics.
“This is nothing short of God’s grace,” Bright said in her acceptance speech. “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.”
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, Bright entered politics at 22, elected as a councillor. Over the years, she has championed youth empowerment, social inclusion, and economic opportunity.
Her mother, Dr. Afolasade Bright, served as Civic Mayor of Hackney in 2006–07, while her father, Pastor Gbolahan Bright MBE, is a senior minister in the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Bright joins a growing list of Nigerians shaping global politics.