Meet 29-year-old Nigerian Elected Albany County Legislator In New York

Efekoro who is one of 10 new people joining the 39-member body, will become the first Nigerian-born person to hold office in the county.

Beroro Efekoro

A Nigerian man has been elected as an Albany County legislator in the state of New York.

Born in Nigeria, Beroro Efekoro moved to New York City with his father and siblings in 2008. The 29-year-old city resident moved to Albany in 2012 to pursue a degree in political science at the University at Albany. He quickly became immersed in the community and political arena.

Efekoro became a U.S. citizen in 2014 while at the university and started a nonprofit – International Organization for Education – to help students succeed in school. Upon graduating in 2015, he was selected as a committee person by Carolyn McLaughlin who was then-chairwoman of the Albany County Democratic Committee.

In 2017, Efekoro ran unsuccessfully for the Common Council’s 11th ward seat against incumbent Judd Krasher and Democratic challengers Alfredo Balarin and Clifton Dixon. Balarin ultimately won the election. Efekoro now serves as deputy ward leader for the 11th ward.

Efekoro who is one of 10 new people joining the 39-member body, will become the first Nigerian-born person to hold office in the county. He resumes work from 1 January 2020.