President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated two British-Nigerians, Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson, following their historic elections and swearing-in ceremonies as mayors in the United Kingdom.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu hailed the duo for their outstanding achievements and praised them for upholding the proud tradition of excellence and integrity that Nigerians in the diaspora continue to embody across the globe.

Bright, 29, made history as the youngest-ever Civic Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, a London borough with a rich multicultural heritage.

Her election comes after seven years of active community service, having first been elected as the borough’s youngest Labour councillor at the age of 22 in 2018.

Jackson, meanwhile, broke new ground as the first Nigerian-born Mayor of Islington since the borough’s formation in 1900.

His swift ascent in public service began with his election as a councillor in 2022, and he quickly rose to become Chair of Islington’s influential Homes and Communities Committee in 2023.

President Tinubu, in his message, applauded their dedication to public service and urged them to continue championing the ideals of honesty, hard work, and selfless commitment to the common good.

“On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Mayors Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson.

“I urge you to continue giving your best in your new roles as the first citizens of Barking and Dagenham, and Islington. I have every confidence in your abilities and look forward to the positive impact you will make in your respective boroughs”, the President said.

The President added that their inspiring journeys from councillors to mayors would serve as powerful examples to young Nigerians everywhere, showing that with perseverance, integrity, and a heart for service, they too can rise to positions of leadership and make meaningful contributions to society.