By Godson Azu
It was a remarkable and inspiring afternoon as friends, family members, political associates, community stakeholders, and dignitaries gathered at St Luke’s Church for a special Thanksgiving Service and reception held in honour of Dr. Cllr. Sunny Lambe, the outgoing Worshipful Mayor of the London Borough of Southwark.
The event, held in Peckham, South East London, marked not only the conclusion of an impactful mayoral tenure but also served as a celebration of leadership, public service, faith, resilience, and commitment to community development. The atmosphere throughout the occasion reflected gratitude, admiration, and respect for a man many described as a political warrior, community champion, and bridge-builder within the Nigerian and wider African diaspora communities in the United Kingdom.
As his tenure officially comes to an end this month, Dr. Cllr. Sunny Lambe’s decision to return thanks to God for guidance, protection, wisdom, and strength throughout his period in office was widely commended by attendees. The Thanksgiving Service symbolised humility and appreciation, values that many speakers noted have characterised his public and political life.
The gathering attracted an impressive cross-section of leaders from the Nigerian diaspora community, media personalities, cultural advocates, political associates, and long-standing friends. Among those present were Dr. Boma Douglas and his amiable wife, Dr. June Douglas, both respected voices within the Nigerian community in the United Kingdom. Also present was the ever-vibrant cultural ambassador and entertainer Ayan De First, popularly known for promoting African heritage through the traditional talking drum, and Prof Chris Imafidon, the CEO ExcellenceInEducation
The event also provided an opportunity to reconnect with distinguished media and community figures such as Otunba Bode Oseni of BEN Television, alongside several political colleagues, faith leaders, and supporters who came to celebrate a tenure many described as exemplary and people-oriented.
Throughout his time as Mayor, Dr. Cllr. Sunny Lambe distinguished himself through dedication to charitable initiatives, civic engagement, inclusion, and support for vulnerable members of the community. Tributes delivered during the reception highlighted his efforts in promoting multicultural harmony, supporting youth and community programmes, strengthening relationships among diverse communities, and representing Southwark with dignity and integrity.
Several speakers acknowledged the increasing importance of diaspora representation in British politics and governance, noting that leaders such as Dr. Lambe continue to inspire younger generations of Africans in the diaspora to participate actively in public service, democratic engagement, and community leadership. His mayoral journey was described as a testament to hard work, resilience, and the growing contributions of Nigerians and Africans within the United Kingdom’s political and social landscape.
Beyond politics, many attendees reflected on Dr. Lambe’s accessibility, humility, and longstanding commitment to community empowerment. His ability to connect with people across cultural, religious, and political backgrounds was repeatedly referenced as one of the defining strengths of his leadership.
The occasion was not merely ceremonial; it was also symbolic of the unity, progress, and aspirations of the African diaspora community in Britain. It reinforced the importance of celebrating leaders who continue to create opportunities, foster inclusion, and elevate the image and contributions of Africans within mainstream British society.
As celebrations continued with goodwill messages, photographs, networking, and cultural exchanges, the event demonstrated the strong bonds that exist within the diaspora community and the collective appreciation for leaders who dedicate themselves to service above self.
On behalf of CaterandMerger Consult UK, heartfelt congratulations were extended to Dr. Cllr. Sunny Lambe on the successful completion of his tenure as Worshipful Mayor of Southwark. His service, leadership, and commitment to humanity remain worthy of recognition and celebration.
Indeed, Dr. Cllr. Sunny Lambe’s story continues to stand as an inspiration to many within the Nigerian diaspora and beyond — a reminder that leadership anchored on service, faith, compassion, and community engagement leaves a lasting legacy.
