Councillor Marshall Katung is the 130th person to hold the Office of Lord Mayor of Leeds.
She is immensely proud to embrace the role and represent the City of Leeds as the first African Lord Mayor.
Abigail was born in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Laying the foundation for academic pursuits, she graduated from Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria with a bachelor’s degree in Business Education. She later pursued a masters degree in Development Studies at the University of Leeds in 2000, driven by her late father’s aspiration for her to further her education in the West and supported by her devoted mother. Leeds quickly became her cherished second home where she established her business while building a family of her own. Abigail is married to Senator Sunday Marshall Katung and they have twin boys who are both currently studying at University.
Engaging in politics, Abigail became an elected member in 2019, and was subsequently elected for a second term in 2023. She became the first African to be elected to Leeds City Council and the first black representative on the Cooperative Party National Executive Council. Within the council, she assumed various roles such as Scrutiny Board Chair, lead member for Faith and Belief, Chair of the Hate Crime Strategic Board, Chair of Further Education 14-19 years and Food Champion.
Beyond the council, Abigail is an avid athlete and coach, specialising in sprinting and serves as a governor at Leeds City College. She is also a trustee of Age UK, Caring Together and Co-Chair of the David Oluwale Memorial Association.
Abigail’s husband, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, is honoured and privileged to take on the role of Lord Mayor’s Consort and is looking forward to supporting his wife and ensuring she has a successful and fruitful tenure.
