British-Nigerian Makes History as London Mayor — A Source of National Pride, Says NGIJ President

President of the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ), Mr. Abdulrahman Aliagan, has praised British-Nigerian Bright Opeyemi for becoming the youngest serving Mayor in the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja, Aliagan described Opeyemi’s rise as a landmark achievement in British political history and a proud milestone for Nigeria.

“The 29-year-old British-born daughter of Nigerian immigrants was officially inaugurated on May 16 as Mayor,” Aliagan noted.

“She now holds the title of First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham; a borough known for its diversity, resilience, and vibrant youth population.

“Opeyemi’s ascension is not just a personal victory, but a shining example of the excellence of the Nigerian diaspora and a source of national pride.

“She grew up in a family devoted to community building and social impact,” he added.

Aliagan highlighted that Opeyemi was elected as a councillor at just 22 and has spent the past seven years advocating for youth empowerment, social inclusion, and economic opportunity in her borough.

“Her rise to the mayoralty is the result of years of tireless service and stands as a testament to her character, competence, and credibility,” he emphasized.

He further stated that Opeyemi’s leadership represents a shared story—one rooted in resilience, achievement, and progress in multicultural societies.

“Her victory is especially symbolic as it challenges stereotypes around youth disengagement from politics.

“She epitomises a new wave of dynamic, inclusive, and globally minded leadership,” Aliagan said.

According to him, Opeyemi’s journey reaffirms the positive impact of Nigerian values such as education, resilience, and service when integrated into international systems.

“She proudly carries her Nigerian heritage with dignity. Her success is proof that culture and identity are assets, not obstacles, in public leadership,” he said.

Aliagan also noted that her story offers a refreshing counter-narrative to the often negative portrayal of Nigeria in global media.

“Her election should serve as a wake-up call. It reflects the untapped potential of our youth and diaspora community,” he added.

He called on Nigerian institutions and the government to draw inspiration from Opeyemi’s accomplishment by investing in youth leadership and incorporating diaspora voices into national policymaking.

“For young Nigerians, especially women, Opeyemi is living proof that neither age, gender, nor immigrant roots are barriers to greatness,” Aliagan concluded.