Princess Opeyemi Bright, a British-Nigerian, has been inaugurated as the youngest mayor in the United Kingdom after assuming office as First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham at age 29. Her appointment, confirmed in April and marked by a ceremony on May 16, 2025, is widely celebrated as a milestone for youth leadership and the Nigerian diaspora in British politics.
Bright began her political journey at just 22, becoming the youngest councillor in the borough in 2018. Over the past seven years, she has championed youth empowerment, social inclusion, and economic opportunity within her community. She has also served as a school governor and a board member of Agile Africa, an NGO focused on equipping young people with technology skills.
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, Dr. Councillor Afolasade Bright and Pastor Gbolahan Bright MBE, Opeyemi continues a family legacy of public service. Her mother was Civic Mayor of Hackney from 2006 to 2007 and is now a cabinet member in Barking and Dagenham, while her father is a senior minister in the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
In her inaugural address, Bright said, “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 emphasized her commitment to uplifting the borough, honoring local heroes, supporting charities, and forging deeper connections with residents, schools, and businesses.
As mayor, Bright will act as an ambassador for Barking and Dagenham, celebrating its diversity, promoting local initiatives, and strengthening community bonds. Her achievement adds her to a growing list of British political leaders of Nigerian descent, including Kemi Badenoch, Chi Onwurah, and Florence Ehalomi.
Outside politics, Bright enjoys cooking, teaching, creating content, and hosting career webinars for youth in Nigeria. She describes herself as guided by grace and ready to serve her community with pride and dedication.
