Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung has been inaugurated as Leeds’ 130th Lord Mayor, succeeding Al Garthwaite and marking a historic milestone as the first person of African descent to hold this esteemed position.
Throughout her term, she will be supported by her husband, Nigerian Senator and Lord Mayor Consort, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung. Born in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria, Councillor Marshall Katung moved to the UK in 2000 to pursue postgraduate studies in Politics & International Studies at the University of Leeds. Her decision to study in the UK was deeply influenced by the passing of her father in 1999, whom she regards as a significant influence in her life. He instilled in her a commitment to ‘education for service,’ a principle she carries forward in her mayoral duties as a tribute to his legacy.
Transitioning from academic pursuits to professional endeavors, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung founded her own business and embraced the joys and challenges of motherhood, raising twin sons who are now university students themselves. In a landmark achievement, Councillor Marshall Katung became the first African to be elected as a ward member of Leeds City Council in 2019, representing the culturally rich Little London and Woodhouse ward in the city centre, where over 82 languages are spoken. She secured her re-election in the 2023 elections.
During her tenure at Leeds City Council, Councillor Marshall Katung has held several leadership positions. Her roles have included chairing the scrutiny board for adults’ health and active lifestyles, the scrutiny board for infrastructure, investment, and inclusive growth, as well as serving as the lead member for faith and belief. She has also chaired the hate crime strategic board and the further education board for 14-19 years, and actively champions food-related initiatives.
Outside of her political career, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung is deeply involved in athletics, specializing in sprinting and also working as a coach. She is committed to community service, holding positions as a governor at Leeds City College, a trustee of Age UK and Caring Together, and co-chair of the David Oluwale Memorial Association.
Continuing a longstanding tradition, the new Lord Mayor has selected a charity to support during her term. Councillor Marshall Katung has chosen the Leeds Community Foundation for its broad support of small, local charities that address crucial societal issues including food poverty, health disparities, mental health, and digital inclusion — issues that she is passionately committed to. Councillor Marshall Katung’s term as Lord Mayor will be supported by her husband, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, who serves as the Lord Mayor Consort.
Speaking of her appointment, The Lord Mayor of Leeds Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung said:
“It is with great appreciation and humility that I embrace the privilege of becoming this great city’s 130th Lord Mayor. Since arriving in Leeds in 2000, the city quickly became my cherished second home. It was not just the city where I lived, studied, and worked, it’s where I chose to raise my children and become a public servant.
“My appointment as Lord Mayor has been widely celebrated in the city’s African community and is a shining example of the enormous contribution international students make to UK society. As Lord Mayor of Leeds, I am committed to working tirelessly to ensure voices are heard from all areas of the city and every triumph is recognised and celebrated.”
Congratulations on your recent inauguration as the 130th Lord Mayor of Leeds. Your historic achievement as the first person of African descent to hold this esteemed position is a testament to your dedication and leadership within the community. Leeds stands to benefit immensely from your wealth of experience and your deep commitment to social equity and community development.
We are confident that under your leadership, the city will continue to thrive and address the critical challenges facing its residents. We would like to wish a successful and impactful tenure, filled with achievements and significant progress towards making Leeds an even more inclusive and vibrant city.
