Princess Opeyemi Bright, a 29-year-old Nigerian-British woman, has made history by becoming the youngest-ever Mayor in the United Kingdom. She was inaugurated as the First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham on Friday, May 16, 2025, marking a new chapter in British politics and celebrating Nigerian leadership globally.
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, Princess Bright’s rise to power is seen as a personal achievement and a symbol of the growing influence of Nigerians living abroad.
“This is nothing short of God’s grace,” she said during her inauguration. “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.”
Princess Bright’s political career began at a young age. At 22, she was elected as a councillor, and for the past seven years, she has worked hard to improve youth empowerment, social inclusion, and economic opportunities in her community.
She comes from a family with a strong background in public service. Her mother, Dr. Afolasade Bright, served as the Civic Mayor of Hackney in 2006-2007, while her father, Pastor Gbolahan Bright MBE, is a senior minister in the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Her election as mayor is part of a larger trend of Nigerians making their mark in global politics. Other notable figures include Kemi Badenoch, the UK’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Labour MP Chi Onwurah, and US Representative Esther Agbaje.
Princess Bright’s success challenges the belief that young people are not interested in politics. It also highlights the important role that women and immigrants play in leadership, proving that Nigerians can thrive and lead anywhere in the world.
Her victory sends a message to Nigerian policymakers about the potential of the diaspora. As more Nigerians rise to leadership positions globally, there is an opportunity for the Nigerian government to better engage this growing community to help with national development.
The Meteor
