From cybersecurity expert to elected MLA Adegoke Fadare turns community involvement into meaningful change for newcomers and longtime residents in Nova Scotia.
When Adegoke Fadare left Nigeria nearly a decade ago and arrived in Nova Scotia, he didn’t know exactly where the road would lead but he knew he wanted to help people.
“I came here because I believed in the promise that Nova Scotia holds—the opportunity to add your own contributions.”
That belief has shaped every step of his journey, from new immigrant to Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Clayton Park West, and one of the first Nigerian-Canadians in the province to hold that title.
But getting there wasn’t easy.
A New Home, a New Mission
Fadare grew up in Lagos, a vibrant and sprawling metropolis of more than 21 million people. Known for its culture, energy, and industry, Lagos is a densely populated megacity.
“I was tired of Lagos,” he says, “because of some of the things that come with a big city.”
As he explored immigration options, Canada stood out. In fact, Nova Scotia caught his attention for an unexpected reason: it reminded him of Lagos in terms of its pace and emerging economic opportunities.
With a background in project management and cybersecurity, Fadare came prepared. He describes the immigration process as “rigorous,” but ultimately rewarding.
“I wanted a place where I could raise a kid safely, that was pro-family, a place where I could play my role, play my part.”
That role, as it turns out, would grow far beyond his expectations.
A Journey of Service
Fadare says his path to public service began early, shaped by the values his father instilled.
“I was raised to be politically conscious—not politics in terms of holding office, but politics in the context of being able to serve people.”
Soon after settling in Nova Scotia, he got to work. He became President of the Association of Nigerians in Nova Scotia and served as Public Relations Officer for Africans in the Diaspora. In 2024, he was elected MLA for Clayton Park West.
His work has touched the lives of hundreds of Nova Scotians—more than 200 of them newcomers, he says. From advocating for better access to healthcare, to improving the way new immigrants find resources, his approach is hands-on and forward-thinking.
“I’ve been involved in creating websites that are one-stop hubs where you can find everything, whether you’re arriving as a family or a student,” he explains.
He also recognizes how important it is for immigrants to see themselves reflected in the communities around them.
“I felt it was important to bring communities together,” he says. “A lot of us are first-generation or second-generation; we don’t have those deep roots needed to help raise our children.”
That belief led him to support the creation of cultural and social hubs where people can gather, share experiences, and feel connected.
Building for the Future
Fadare’s impact continues to grow. This summer, he’s helping to launch a new medical clinic in Clayton Park, addressing the urgent need for more healthcare access in the area. A new junior high and high school are also underway on Radcliffe Drive, which he says will serve a growing and diverse population.
“There’s still a lot of work to be done,” he says. “A lot more people need access to healthcare,” for example.
For Fadare, this work is more than a career—it’s a calling.
“I always wanted to be the hand of empowerment for those who need it,” he says. “It’s not enough to just be the voice—you need to help affect real change.”
