Princess Opeyemi Bright has made history as the youngest serving mayor in the United Kingdom.
At just 29, Princess Bright was officially inaugurated as the First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham on Friday. Her rise is not only a personal milestone but a big win for Nigerian youth, women, and immigrants making their mark abroad.
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, Princess Bright is flying the flag high for both countries. Her appointment signals a refreshing shift in leadership, one that embraces diversity, youth, and purpose.
“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.”
Politics is nothing new to Princess Bright. She stepped into public service early, becoming a councillor at 22. Over the years, she’s championed causes close to the heart—youth empowerment, social inclusion, and economic opportunity. These values were shaped by her upbringing as the daughter of seasoned leaders: Dr Councillor Afolasade Bright, who once served as Civic Mayor of Hackney, and Pastor Gbolahan Bright MBE, a respected minister in the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Her emergence comes at a time when Nigerians are increasingly shaping conversations and policies on the global stage; from the UK to Canada, the US, and beyond. With figures like Kemi Badenoch, Chi Onwurah, Uzoma Asagwara, and Esther Agbaje making waves in politics, Princess Bright joins a growing list of Nigerians redefining leadership across borders.
Her victory challenges outdated ideas about young people’s role in politics. It shows that leadership has no age limit and that young women can sit at the table and lead it.
Chioma Onuh @BusinessDay
