Former Edo State governor Godwin Obaseki has been appointed as a visiting scholar and researcher at the African Studies Center in the United States.
The appointment was announced on Wednesday by the center, which operates under the Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies.
According to the institution, Obaseki will use the opportunity to examine the achievements, challenges, and policy strategies implemented during his eight-year administration in Edo State.
The research, the center noted, is expected to generate valuable insights that could guide public officials and policymakers involved in economic reforms and transformative leadership across Africa.
Director of the African Studies Center, Nimi Wariboko, welcomed the former governor into the institution’s academic community, describing his appointment as beneficial to both the university and the broader scholarly community.
Wariboko explained that Obaseki’s engagement with academics and researchers would help strengthen his research framework while allowing him to compare his governance models with global policy approaches.
He added that the former governor’s final research output, expected to take the form of a book manuscript, would contribute significantly to the center’s academic publications.
“His presence will also revive the historic practice of the African Studies Center hosting distinguished African public leaders willing to share their experience and insights with the Boston University community,” Wariboko stated.
Reacting to the appointment, Obaseki described it as an opportunity to reflect on his years in office and document the strategies adopted during his administration.
“I am excited about this appointment and the privilege of being part of this world-class university,” he said.
The former governor added that the intellectual environment at Boston University would provide an ideal space for reflection, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas on governance and development.
Also commenting, Scott Taylor, Dean of the Pardee School of Global Studies, said the institution was honoured to welcome Obaseki and support his reflections on African political economy and public policy.
Founded in 1953, the African Studies Center is regarded as one of the oldest institutions in the United States dedicated to African studies and remains a major hub for Africa-focused research and scholarship.