She was known for her velvet voice that ruled the airwaves of Radio Nigeria, but now councillor Rosaline Ogunro has been officially sworn-in (Wednesday, 27 May) as the Mayor of Islington for 2026/27.

A councillor since May 2022, Cllr Ogunro has previously sat on a range of council committees – including Homes and Communities Scrutiny, Children and Young People Scrutiny, and the Planning and Licensing Committees. 

Ogunro who succeeded another Nigerian Jason Jackson joined the growing list of Nigerians in British public life reinforcing what many see as the expanding civic and political influence of the Nigerian diaspora across the UK.

“It means the world to me. I don’t only have to know my ward, which is St. Peter’s and Canalside, but I get to go all over East Islington and meet the diverse community that we have—meet young, old, different colours of people, different shades of people from all walks of life,” the ex-broadcaster said. 

With a background in community advocacy and broadcasting, Ogunro takes office at a time of growing pressure on local councils across Britain.