Councillor Helen Ogbu has made history by becoming the first person of a migrant background to serve as the Mayor of Galway City in Ireland. The Labour Party politician secured the prestigious seat on Friday, June 19, 2026.
The selection occurred during the annual general meeting of the Galway City Council inside City Hall. This landmark victory establishes her as the 72nd first citizen of the locality.
The newly elected politician originally arrived in Ireland from Nigeria in 2006. She sought refuge after her husband, Sunny Orji-Ogbu, was murdered due to his political activities back home.
Since settling down, she spent 20 years volunteering and mentoring local families. Furthermore, she acted as a dedicated foster mother to more than 30 children within the community.
“Today is indeed a historic day. I have the privilege of becoming the first person of migrant background to serve as Mayor of Galway City,” Ogbu stated.
Her political career accelerated rapidly after winning a council seat representing Galway City East in 2024. Recently, she achieved a strong finish in the Galway West parliamentary bye-election with nearly 13,000 votes.
The new leader took over the chain of office from the outgoing chief executive, Mike Cubbard. Meanwhile, Councillor Josie Forde was elected to fill the role of Deputy Mayor alongside her.
“While I recognise the significance of that moment, I do not view it as a solely personal achievement, but rather as a reflection of Galway, the city that I now call my home,” she added.
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