Nigerian-born Councillor Rosaline Ogunro has been inaugurated as the new Mayor of Islington, marking another milestone for the Nigerian diaspora in British politics. The ceremony took place in London, with Ogunro becoming the first Nigerian-born woman to hold the ceremonial role in the borough.

Her emergence comes just a year after Nigerian-born Jason Jackson made history as Islington’s first Nigerian-born mayor. The back-to-back appointments underscore the growing civic and political influence of Nigerians across the United Kingdom.

Ogunro brings decades of experience in community advocacy, broadcasting, and public service to the role. She was first elected as Councillor for St. Peter’s and Canalside Ward in May 2022. Since then, she has served on the Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee and the Licensing Committee, and held the position of Deputy Mayor before her elevation.

Before entering politics, Ogunro worked with several voluntary organisations, including the Islington Citizens Advice Bureau, where she continues to serve part-time as an adviser. She also worked in the Marketing Department of the London Symphony Orchestra as Customer Service and Office Coordinator and sang in the orchestra’s Community Choir for more than 20 years.

Her background in broadcasting began in Nigeria’s Voice of Nigeria environment, where she worked as a continuity announcer. She was later appointed to the Board of Trustees of St Luke’s Centre in May 2022. Her interests include singing, fashion design, clothes making, and gardening.

The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, congratulated Ogunro, calling the achievement “a proud moment for Nigeria” and a demonstration of “excellence, dedication and impactful community service.” She expressed confidence that Ogunro would bring her wealth of experience and leadership to the role.

Ogunro assumes office at a time when local councils across the UK face mounting pressure over governance and public services. Her inauguration adds to the growing recognition of Nigerians in the UK across politics, business, healthcare, academia, and community development.

Earlier in January 2026, several Nigerians were recognised in King Charles III’s Honours List for contributions in medicine, education, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and civic leadership.