Akwa Ibom’s Jason Utitofon Jackson Becomes First Black Mayor of Islington, UK

In a historic milestone for representation and diversity, Jason Utitofon Jackson, an indigene of Ikot Ekong in Ika Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, has been officially inaugurated as the Mayor of Islington in the United Kingdom. This achievement makes him the first black and Nigerian-born individual to hold the position since the borough’s establishment in 1900.

Cllr Jackson, who moved to the UK as a teenager, has built a remarkable career in public service and community leadership. Before his mayoral appointment, he served as the Deputy Mayor of Islington and was elected as a councillor in 2022. His swift ascent through local government ranks has been fueled by a strong commitment to equity, social justice, and grassroots development. As Chair of Islington’s Homes and Communities Committee in 2023, he led innovative initiatives, including a nationally recognised £1.6 million mental health programme designed specifically for young Black men.

Educated both in Nigeria and the UK, Jackson began his schooling in Akwa Ibom and attended Holy Family College in Abak before continuing his studies in Britain. He later earned a degree in Business Law and Media Studies and a Master’s in Big Data in Culture and Society from King’s College London. As a student leader at London Metropolitan University, he gained prominence for advocating racial equity and student rights, laying the foundation for a lifetime of civic engagement.

In addition to his political work, Jackson is the co-founder of The Black Policy Institute (TBPI), a national think tank dedicated to integrating Black British and African perspectives into UK policy and governance. He is also a business consultant and social entrepreneur with ventures in real estate, agriculture, education, and ethical AI.

A deeply spiritual individual, Jackson rose to national fame in Nigeria as its youngest preacher at the age of six. Today, his Christian faith continues to shape his values and leadership ethos. He is married and a father of three, often citing his family as his greatest source of strength and motivation.

Reflecting on his historic appointment, Mayor Jackson said, “Becoming Islington’s first Nigerian-born Mayor is more than a personal honour — it is a symbol of what is possible when one’s heritage inspires service, and leadership reflects the community it represents.”

His tenure as mayor will focus on key issues such as youth empowerment, mental health, social equity, and inclusive innovation.