Princess Opeyemi Bright has made history as the youngest mayor in the United Kingdom, officially taking on the role of First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham at just 29 years old.
Her appointment represents a major milestone for both young leaders and the Nigerian diaspora in UK politics.
Princess Opeyemi Bright
During her acceptance speech on Friday, May 16, Bright called the moment “nothing short of God’s grace” and vowed to lead with humility while proudly honoring her Nigerian heritage.
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, she began her political career at 22 and has spent the past seven years championing youth development and social inclusion. Her mother, Dr. Afolasade Bright, once served as Civic Mayor of Hackney, while her father, Pastor Gbolahan Bright MBE, is a senior pastor in the RCCG.
Her rise to leadership reflects the increasing presence of Nigerians in global politics, alongside notable figures such as Kemi Badenoch, Chi Onwurah, Uzoma Asagwara, and Esther Agbaje.