Outgoing Islington Mayor Reflects on Year of Service

Islington Council has bid farewell to its outgoing Mayor, Councillor Jason Jackson, who reflected on a year of dedicated service at the Annual Council meeting held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. The meeting also saw the election of the new Mayor, Councillor Rosaline Ogunro.

Councillor Jackson, in his final address as Mayor, spoke of the profound honour of serving the borough, having attended over 750 engagements during his tenure. These included hosting the annual Civic Ben Kenzella Awards to recognize residents working towards equality, and the Mayor's Charity Gala which raised funds for Islington Giving. He highlighted his visits to schools, estates, faith centres, youth clubs, businesses, and care homes across Islington, stating, Everywhere I went, I carried this borough with pride. He emphasized that Islington is an idea, a living example of diversity, resilience, creativity, and community.¹

Reflecting on his personal journey, he added, Sometimes I wish the people who doubted me, and even the younger version of myself, could sit in this chamber tonight and see what is possible.² He also alluded to his past, stating, Sometimes I think about the young boy I was. The boy who started life far away from here with big dreams. Strong faith and many obstacles.

Councillor Jackson also noted the impactful moments of his term, including attending a small group meeting of people living with Parkinson's, the Christmas lunch for older residents, and the Holocaust Memorial Day ceremony. He also had the opportunity to represent Islington nationally and internationally, including a visit to his home state, Akwaibom State, in Nigeria.

Despite the challenges faced by the borough, Councillor Jackson expressed optimism. He described seeing kindness in the middle of hardship, neighbours supporting neighbours, and communities refusing to give up on each other. He concluded, I have even more hope in Islington than when I began this joining.

Councillor Jackson stated that his term as Mayor would not mark the end of his service to Islington. If anything, this year has deepened my commitment to the borough even more, he said, expressing a desire to continue playing my part in helping build an Eastlington where every resident has an opportunity, not just to survive, but truly to thrive in it.

The process for selecting the next Mayor of Islington involves a nomination and election during the Annual Council meeting. Councillor Saiqa Pandor nominated Councillor Rosaline Ogunro, with Councillor Toby North seconding the nomination. Following a vote, Councillor Rosaline Ogunro was elected as the new Mayor.

More information about the Annual Council meeting can be found in the Reissued Agenda and the Public reports pack.