By Ayan Valentin | Exclusive to Interface Africa Magazine
Councillor Jason Utitofon Jackson has been officially inaugurated as the Mayor of Islington, London — the first Nigerian-born individual to hold this position in the borough’s 124-year history.
Hailing from Ika Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, and raised in the vibrant community of Hackney, Jackson’s ascent to mayoralty is a testament to resilience, grassroots engagement, and unwavering commitment to public service. His story exemplifies the possibilities that arise when dedication meets opportunity in a multicultural democracy.
A staunch advocate for social equity, Jackson has long been a pillar in his community. He played a pivotal role in the development of the Young Black Men and Mental Health initiative, a groundbreaking programme designed to offer crucial mental health support and pathways to success for young Black men across the borough.
Further amplifying his impact, Jackson co-founded The Black Policy Institute, a progressive think tank devoted to advancing inclusion and fairness within the policy-making landscape of the UK. His work has consistently highlighted the urgent need for systemic reform and representation in public institutions.
As Mayor, Jackson has thrown his support behind Islington Giving, a dynamic coalition of local residents and organisations uniting to uplift grassroots causes. The initiative focuses on empowering young people through mental health services, skills development, and employment opportunities. Jackson’s mayoral agenda places strong emphasis on championing local entrepreneurship, celebrating the borough’s cultural richness, and fostering holistic community development.
This historic milestone has drawn acclaim far beyond British shores. The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, lauded Jackson’s achievement as both “historic” and “inspirational,” praising it as a reflection of Akwa Ibom’s values: perseverance, integrity, and commitment to communal progress.
Mayor Jackson’s journey from the streets of Hackney to the chambers of Islington Town Hall underscores a powerful narrative of diasporic excellence, civic leadership, and transcontinental pride. His story not only inspires the Nigerian community but also affirms the invaluable contributions of African voices in shaping inclusive futures in global cities.
Interface Africa Magazine celebrates Mayor Jason Utitofon Jackson — a trailblazer redefining leadership, representation, and the power of heritage in public life.
