“This is nothing short of God’s grace. 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,”
— Opeyemi Bright
- A New Chapter in Nigerian Global Leadership
In an inspiring chapter for Nigerians at home and abroad, Princess Opeyemi Bright has etched her name in the annals of British political history as the youngest serving Mayor in London Borough. Inaugurated on May 16th, 2025, at just 29 years old, the British-born daughter of Nigerian immigrants now stands as the First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham—a borough known for its diversity, resilience, and growing youth population.
Her ascension is not merely a personal triumph; it is a proud moment for Nigeria and a glowing symbol of the growing influence and excellence of the Nigerian diaspora across the globe.
Princess Opeyemi Bright is no stranger to leadership. Her roots are deeply anchored in public service and faith. She is the daughter of Dr. Councillor Afolasade Bright, who once served as Civic Mayor of Hackney from 2006 to 2007, and Pastor Gbolahan Bright MBE, a respected minister in the Redeemed Christian Church of God. Her upbringing in a family committed to community building and social impact laid a strong foundation for her political journey.
Elected as a councillor at the age of 22, Mayor Bright has spent the last seven years serving her community with dedication, focusing on youth empowerment, social inclusion, and economic opportunity. Her elevation to Mayor is a culmination of years of tireless service and a testament to her character, competence, and credibility.
“This is nothing short of God’s grace. 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,” she said during her inauguration.
Princess Bright’s story joins a growing list of Nigerians making waves in global politics—especially in the United Kingdom, where the Nigerian community has steadily risen to prominence.
From Kemi Badenoch, a British Conservative MP of Nigerian descent and Secretary of State for Business and Trade, to Chinyelu Onwurah, a Labour MP representing Newcastle Central, Nigerians are making impactful strides in British public life. Kate Osamor and Femi Olayemi are among other names who reflect the growing footprint of Nigerians in UK governance.
Beyond the UK, Nigerians have also emerged as elected officials in Canada, Uzoma Asagwara, Manitoba’s Minister of Health), the United States, Esther Agbaje in the Minnesota House of Representatives), and Australia. Their stories speak to a shared narrative—one of resilience, excellence, and the ability to lead in multicultural societies.
Princess Bright’s election is particularly symbolic on multiple fronts:
At just 29, her achievement defies stereotypes about youth disengagement in politics. She embodies a new generation of leaders—dynamic, inclusive, and global in outlook.
Her success affirms the strength and relevance of the Nigerian diaspora. It shows how Nigerian values of education, resilience, and service can be harmonized within foreign systems to effect change.
In her own words, she proudly carries her Nigerian heritage with dignity. Her rise is a reminder that culture and identity are strengths—not hindrances—in public leadership.
For Nigeria, often in the global news for negative stories, Princess Bright’s success offers a refreshing and affirming narrative. It bolsters Nigeria’s soft power and international reputation.
Her election should serve as a wake-up call for Nigerian institutions. It reflects the untapped potential of Nigerian youth and the diaspora. The Nigerian government must see this as a strategic opportunity to engage its diaspora for development. Investments in youth leadership, diaspora inclusion in policy-making, and partnerships with Nigerians abroad can unlock immense value.
Moreover, for young Nigerians—especially women—Princess Bright stands as a living testament to what is possible. Her journey is proof that age, gender, or immigrant heritage need not be barriers to greatness.
Princess Opeyemi Bright’s historic rise is not just a personal victory—it is a beacon of hope, a rallying point for global Nigerians, and a proud moment in the story of a resilient nation. She exemplifies the spirit of service, the power of heritage, and the promise of a new generation unafraid to lead on the world stage.
Indeed, Nigeria to the world—again.
