A major political moment has unfolded in Wolverhampton as British-Nigerian councillor Celia Hibbert secured unanimous backing to become the leader of Reform UK on the Wolverhampton City Council, officially positioning her as Leader of the Official Opposition in the city.
The appointment, announced by Hibbert on Wednesday through her social media platforms, marks another significant step in the growing political visibility of Nigerians in the diaspora, particularly within the United Kingdom’s local government system.
Describing the moment as deeply personal and symbolic, Hibbert said she was “deeply honoured” by the confidence placed in her by party members.
“I am deeply honoured to have been elected unanimously as Leader of Reform UK in Wolverhampton, a responsibility which now sees me serve as Leader of the Official Opposition on Wolverhampton City Council,” she wrote.
Hibbert used the occasion to reflect on her political journey and the environment she says she found within Reform UK after leaving the Labour Party. According to her, the party assessed her based on competence, commitment and public service rather than identity politics.
“Since joining Reform UK, I have been judged not by the colour of my skin, but by my ability, character and commitment to public service,” she stated. “That has been a refreshing and profoundly different experience from my time in The Labour Party, which, in my opinion, is often more focused on DEI rather than on talent, merit and commitment.”
She also praised Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, saying the party “is not afraid of talent or success” but instead “encourages and nurtures both.”
While her remarks are likely to generate political debate across Britain’s increasingly polarised landscape, Hibbert insisted that her priority remains the people of Wolverhampton and the issues affecting their everyday lives.
She pledged to stay “focused, disciplined and attentive to the legitimate concerns of local residents,” adding that she intends to serve with “patriotism, duty and pride.”
Beyond politics, Hibbert revealed that the values guiding her leadership were shaped long before public office. She recalled the words of her late father, which she said continue to influence her sense of responsibility.
“My late father always told me: ‘To whom much is given, much is expected.’ Those words continue to guide me,” she said.
The Nigerian-born politician vowed to dedicate herself fully to public service, promising to work tirelessly for Wolverhampton residents and communities beyond the city.
Her emergence adds to the growing list of Nigerians making notable contributions across global institutions, reinforcing the expanding influence of the diaspora in governance, leadership and civic life abroad.
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