Former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has taken a step into global academia following his appointment as a Visiting Scholar and Researcher at the African Studies Center at Boston University.
The appointment, announced by the centre under the Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies, is expected to see the former governor engage in research focusing on governance, public policy and economic reforms in Africa.
According to the university, Obaseki will critically assess the policies and development programmes implemented during his eight-year administration in Edo State, with the aim of drawing lessons for future African leaders and public sector reformers.
The study will examine both the successes and limitations of his administration, particularly in areas such as public finance reforms, digital governance, education and civil service transformation.
The university noted that the research outcome is expected to contribute significantly to ongoing conversations around governance and economic development on the continent.
Director of the African Studies Center, Nimi Wariboko, described Obaseki’s appointment as a valuable addition to the institution’s academic community.
He said the former governor’s practical experience in public administration would provide students and researchers with unique insights into governance challenges and reforms in Africa.
Wariboko also noted that Obaseki’s final research output, expected to be published as a book manuscript, would strengthen the centre’s body of scholarly work.
According to him, the appointment also revives the centre’s longstanding tradition of hosting accomplished African leaders committed to sharing their experiences with the academic community.
Reacting to the development, Obaseki expressed excitement over the opportunity to join what he described as a world-class academic institution.
“I am excited by this appointment and the privilege it affords me to be part of this world-class university,” he said.
The former governor added that the environment at Boston University would allow him to reflect deeply on governance and development issues while exchanging ideas with scholars and policy experts.
Also speaking on the appointment, Dean of the Pardee School of Global Studies, Scott Taylor, said the institution looked forward to supporting Obaseki’s research and policy reflections on African political economy.
Established in 1953, the African Studies Center is regarded as one of the oldest African-focused academic institutions in the United States and remains a leading hub for research and scholarship on African affairs.