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Summary
Princess Opeyemi Bright has made history as the youngest Mayor in the UK after being inaugurated as the First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.
In a historic milestone for youth leadership and Nigerian representation in the diaspora, 29-year-old British-Nigerian Princess Opeyemi Bright has been inaugurated as the youngest Mayor in the United Kingdom.
Princess Bright officially assumed office as the First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham on May 16, 2025, following a ceremonial mayor-making event at Barking Town Hall. She succeeds Councillor Moin Quadri, who served as Mayor over the past year.
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, Princess Bright’s rise to public office reflects her unwavering commitment to community development and her deep-rooted passion for service. Elected as a councillor at the age of 22, she has spent the past seven years championing youth empowerment, social inclusion, and economic opportunity across the borough.
Her dedication to civic duty is inspired by her mother, Dr. Afolasade Bright, who served as Civic Mayor of Hackney from 2006 to 2007.
Beyond politics, Princess Bright has served as a school governor, board member of Agile Africa, and mentor to emerging professionals. She is also known for hosting career webinars for Nigerian youth and enjoys teaching and content creation in her personal time.
Celebrating her appointment and sharing her official photos, Mayor Princess wrote on her X page:
“This Borough raised me – now I have the privilege of serving it. It’s not just a title. It’s a commitment to community, visibility & progress. Let the work begin!”
As Civic Mayor, Cllr Bright will act as an ambassador for Barking and Dagenham, representing the borough at official functions, promoting local initiatives, and fostering community spirit and unity.
Her appointment signals a new era of inclusive leadership and inspires young women, particularly those of African descent, across the UK and beyond.
