President Bola Tinubu has congratulated British-Nigerians Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson on their election and inauguration as mayors in the London boroughs of Barking and Dagenham, and Islington.
In a statement released on Wednesday by his spokesman, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu praised the duo for upholding the legacy of excellence among Nigerians in the diaspora. He commended their commitment to values such as honesty, integrity, and service to community.
The president expressed hope that their achievements would inspire young people, both in Nigeria and abroad, to strive for excellence and leadership.
“On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Mayors Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson. I urge you to continue giving your best in your new roles as first citizens of your respective boroughs,” Tinubu said.
“I have every confidence in your abilities and look forward to the positive impact you will make in your respective boroughs,” Tinubu stated.
Bright was sworn in as the Civic Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, making history as the borough’s youngest-ever mayor at just 29, following seven years of outstanding service to her community.
Jackson also became the first Nigerian-born Mayor of Islington since the borough’s establishment in 1900, following a rapid rise through lOn behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Mayors Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson.
“I urge you to continue giving your best in your new roles as the first citizens of Barking and Dagenham, and Islington.
“I have every confidence in your abilities and look forward to the positive impact you will make in your respective boroughs,” Tinubu stated.
Before becoming Mayor, Bright was the borough’s youngest Labour Councillor at 22, a feat achieved in 2018.
Jackson was first elected as a councillor in 2022 and became Chair of Islington’s Homes and Communities Committee in 2023.
