Briga News Nigeria
Jason Utitofon Jackson has been officially sworn in as the Mayor of Islington in greater London, UK, marking a historic milestone as the first Nigerian-born politician to occupy the prestigious office since the establishment in 1900.
The new Mayor, an illustrious son of Akwa Ibom State, originally from Ika Local Government Area, is inspiring a new generation of Africans in global politics.
In his acceptance speech, Mayor Jackson paid homage to his Nigerian roots and emphasized the significance of cultural pride in leadership:
“This isn’t just my victory, it belongs to the generations of Nigerians who dared to dream beyond borders. It belongs to every young African child looking for their reflection in leadership. I carry Islington, Akwa Ibom, and the hopes of many on my shoulders.”
Born in Akwa Ibom, Jackson began his early education at the Holy Family College (HOFACO) in Abak, Akwa Ibom State, before relocating to the UK to continue his studies.
In the UK, he earned a degree in Business Law and Media Studies and later completed a Master’s in Big Data in Culture and Society at King’s College London.
During his university years at London Metropolitan University, he was elected President of the Students’ Union, championing racial equity, student empowerment, and cross-continental advocacy.
Elected as a councillor in 2022, he quickly rose through the ranks and was appointed Chair of Islington’s Homes and Communities Committee in 2023. In this role, he led ground-breaking work in housing equity, community wellbeing, and inclusive governance.
Jason Utitofon Jackson is happily married and a proud father of three sons, often describing his family as his greatest motivation.
