Princess Opeyemi Bright has been sworn in as the youngest Mayor in the United Kingdom.
At just 29 years old, Princess Bright now holds the prestigious title of First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, following her inauguration on Friday, May 16, 2025.
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, her election has been widely celebrated as a symbol of diversity, youth empowerment, and the growing influence of Nigerians abroad.
“This is nothing short of God’s grace,”;; she declared during her swearing-in ceremony. “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 journey into politics began at the age of 22, when she was first elected as a councillor. Over the last seven years, she has built a reputation as a passionate advocate for youth empowerment, social inclusion, and economic opportunity.
Her election to the mayoralty follows in the footsteps of her mother, Dr. Councillor Afolasade Bright, who served as Civic Mayor of Hackney from 2006 to 2007.
Her father, Pastor Gbolahan Bright, MBE, is a respected minister in the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
The rise of Princess Bright is part of a broader trend of Nigerians making strides in global governance.
From Kemi Badenoch, the UK’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade, to Labour MP Chi Onwurah, and others like Uzoma Asagwara in Canada and Esther Agbaje in the United States, Nigerians in the diaspora continue to break barriers and challenge stereotypes.
Princess Bright’s ascension is also seen as a powerful rebuttal to the perception of youth disengagement from politics. Her victory demonstrates the transformative role young people and women can play in shaping public life.
Analysts say her success holds lessons for Nigerian policymakers, particularly in engaging the diaspora and investing in leadership development.Her historic win is not just a personal achievement — it is a beacon of inspiration for young Nigerians around the world.
