Nigerian woman makes history, emerges first African Lord Mayor of Leeds

Abigail Katung, a Nigerian woman, has made history by being appointed as the 130th Lord Mayor of Leeds City in England. This marks the first time a person of African descent has held this prestigious position.

The announcement was made after the annual general meeting of the Leeds City Council on Thursday night, as confirmed by an official statement on the council’s website.

In taking over from Al Garthwaite, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung assumes the role as the city’s 130th Lord Mayor and breaks new ground as the first individual of African heritage to do so.

Throughout her term, Councillor Marshall Katung will receive support from her husband, Nigerian Senator and Lord Mayor Consort, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung.

It was disclosed that Katung, originally from Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria, came to the UK in 2000 to pursue postgraduate studies in Politics and International Studies at the University of Leeds.

After losing her father in 1999, who greatly influenced her life by emphasizing the value of education for service, Councillor Marshall Katung made the decision to honor his legacy by studying abroad.

Transitioning from student life to professional endeavors, she founded her own business while balancing the joys and responsibilities of raising twin sons who are now pursuing higher education.

In addition to various roles within the Leeds City Council, including chairing boards related to adult health and active lifestyles as well as infrastructure and investment, Katung has also led initiatives concerning faith and belief, hate crime prevention, further education for young adults aged 14-19 years old, and promoting healthy eating.

In 2019, Councillor Marshall Katung made history by becoming the first African to be elected as a ward member of Leeds City Council, representing the culturally diverse Little London and Woodhouse ward where more than 82 languages are spoken.

She was re-elected in 2023 and has chosen to support the Leeds Community Foundation during her term, as this charity aligns with her passion for addressing societal inequalities such as food poverty, health disparities, mental health issues, and digital inclusion.

In addition to her role in local governance, Katung is known for her dedication to athletics and coaching, as well as serving as a governor at Leeds City College.

In her new role as the 130th Lord Mayor of Leeds, Katung expressed her gratitude for the appointment and highlighted her strong ties to the city.

She stressed her commitment to ensuring that all voices are respected and acknowledged during her time in office. Katung shared that Leeds has been a significant part of her life since 2000, not just as a place of residence, but also where she raised her family and served the community.

Her appointment has been met with enthusiasm from the African community in Leeds, showcasing the valuable contributions international students make to British society.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also extended his congratulations to Katung, recognizing her achievement as a testament to Nigeria’s talented individuals excelling globally.

Atiku commended Katung for being the first person of African descent to hold this prestigious position and wished her a successful tenure alongside her husband, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung.