Former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has been appointed as a Visiting Scholar and Researcher at the African Studies Center of Boston University.
The African Studies Center, which operates under the Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies, announced the appointment as part of its ongoing efforts to promote multidisciplinary research and Africa-focused scholarship.
According to a report published by Boston University news, Obaseki will use the opportunity to critically examine the achievements, reforms, and challenges of his eight-year administration in Edo State.
The study, according to the institution, is expected to provide insights and guidance for public officials across Africa involved in transformative governance and economic reforms.
Director of the African Studies Center, Nimi Wariboko, described Obaseki’s appointment as a major addition to the academic community of the institution.
Wariboko noted that the former governor’s affiliation with Boston University would enable him to engage with scholars to refine his theoretical framework, strengthen his research methodology, and evaluate his policy approaches against global governance models.
He added that the outcome of Obaseki’s research, expected to be published as a book manuscript, would contribute significantly to the center’s academic output while also reviving the institution’s tradition of hosting distinguished African leaders willing to share their governance experiences.
Reacting to the appointment, Obaseki expressed excitement over the opportunity to join what he described as a world-class institution.
“I am excited by this appointment and the privilege it affords me to be part of this world-class university,” he said.
According to him, the position will provide an avenue to document and review the strategies and frameworks deployed during his administration between 2016 and 2024 to transform Edo State’s economic and social development landscape.
Obaseki further described Boston University as an ideal environment for reflection, collaboration, learning, and the exchange of ideas due to its strong tradition of scholarship and commitment to addressing global challenges.
Established in 1953, the African Studies Center is one of the oldest and most respected African studies institutions in the United States. It is also designated by the U.S. Department of Education as a Title VI National Resource Center for African studies.
Dean of the Pardee School of Global Studies, Scott Taylor, said the university was honored to host Obaseki and support his reflections on African political economy and public policy.
Taylor noted that Boston University has a long-standing history of supporting African development research and expressed optimism that Obaseki’s time at the institution would produce valuable contributions to governance and policy discussions across the continent.
Credit:BU
