Councillor Patience Ifediora has been elected as Nottingham’s first-ever female Lord Mayor of African descent, marking a historic milestone for the city. The decision was made during a Full Council meeting on May 12, where Cllr Ifediora, representing Aspley ward, succeeded Cllr Carole McCulloch. Cllr Zafran Khan, from Wollaton West, was appointed Sheriff of Nottingham, taking over from Cllr Liaqat Ali.

Cllr Neghat Khan, leader of Nottingham City Council, praised Cllr McCulloch’s tenure for its “pride and energy” and hailed Cllr Ifediora’s appointment as a testament to the city’s diversity and inclusivity. “Nottingham is a proud, diverse city. Today, we stand together,” she said, noting Cllr Ifediora’s trailblazing record. In 2015, Ifediora became the first African woman elected to the council, followed by roles as Sheriff in 2019 and vice-chair of the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service in 2022.

Cllr Zafran Khan’s appointment as Sheriff was celebrated for its cultural significance, with Cllr Steve Battlemuch referencing the role’s global recognition due to its association with Robin Hood. “I know he will do it with pride, energy, and a smile,” Battlemuch said. Cllr Neghat Khan highlighted her brother Zafran’s inspiration from their father, Gul Khan, a former miner, NCT conductor, and councillor since 2003, who also served as Lord Mayor.

The meeting also saw executive reshuffles. Cllr Neghat Khan remains council leader and executive member for strategic regeneration, property, and communications. Other continuing roles include Cllr Jay Hayes (housing and planning), Cllr Cheryl Barnard (children, young people, and education), and Cllr Corall Jenkins (neighbourhoods, waste, and equalities). Cllr Sam Lux will step down as executive member for climate and energy in June due to parental leave. Cllr Ethan Radford, deputy leader, assumes the finance portfolio, while Cllr Linda Woodings transitions to regional development, growth, and transport. Cllr Helen Kalsi takes on adult social care and health, replacing Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis, who resigned in February. Stuart Fair was confirmed as the permanent corporate director for finance.

The appointments reflect Nottingham’s commitment to diversity and progressive leadership, with Cllr Ifediora and Cllr Khan poised to promote the city on a global stage.