In a stirring call to action, Nigerian-British trailblazer and youngest Mayor, Princess Opeyemi Bright, has encouraged Nigerian youths—both at home and in the diaspora—to harness their talents for self-growth and national pride.
Mayor Bright, who currently serves as Mayor of Barking and Dagenham in the United Kingdom, made the remarks while hosting Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), during a dynamic town hall meeting held in the London Borough.
During the event, Mayor Bright pledged to deepen the bridge of access and opportunity between Nigeria and the UK, particularly for young Nigerians seeking platforms to thrive. She emphasized the need for young people to remain grounded in their roots while exploring global opportunities.
“This is a defining moment. Wherever you find yourself in the world, your talent is your power. Use it not just to succeed personally but to represent the values and identity of Nigeria,” she said.
Her remarks resonated strongly with the principles of the National Orientation Agency’s National Identity Project, which seeks to promote the collective identity, dignity, and positive global image of Nigerians.
Also speaking at the event, Hon. Dabiri-Erewa praised Mayor Bright’s achievements and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting Nigerians in the diaspora. She noted that preserving and projecting Nigeria’s national identity is a shared responsibility and a source of pride.
The gathering served as both a celebration of excellence and a reaffirmation of unity among Nigerians abroad, with a shared commitment to nation-building through values, culture, and personal development.