Princess Opeyemi Bright, a 29-year-old British-Nigerian, has made history by becoming the youngest mayor in the United Kingdom. She was inaugurated on May 16, 2025, as the ceremonial Mayor of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham .
Born and raised in the UK to Nigerian parents, Princess Bright has been actively involved in local politics for several years. She was elected as a councillor representing the Eastbrook and Rush Green ward, which had a population of 7,691 according to the 2021 Census .
Her role as mayor is largely ceremonial, serving as the First Citizen of the borough and representing Barking and Dagenham at official events. While the position does not carry executive powers, it holds significant symbolic value and reflects the borough’s commitment to diversity and youth representation in governance.
Princess Bright’s achievement has been widely celebrated, especially within Nigerian and British communities, as a testament to the growing influence of young, diverse leaders in UK politics.
