Boston University Names Obaseki Visiting Scholar

…To Chronicle Edo Reforms, Shape African Governance Discourse

By Admin

Former Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has been appointed Visiting Scholar/Researcher at the African Studies Center (ASC), Boston University, United States, in recognition of his contributions to public sector reforms, digital governance and education transformation in Nigeria.

The African Studies Center, housed within the Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies, is one of the foremost institutions in the United States dedicated to the study of Africa. The Center promotes multidisciplinary research and brings together scholars, students and experts across diverse fields to deepen engagement with African development issues.

Obaseki, who governed Edo State from 2016 to 2024, is widely acknowledged for implementing reforms aimed at modernising governance and repositioning public institutions. Among the flagship initiatives of his administration was the EdoBEST programme, a technology-driven basic education reform project that attracted international recognition and has been referenced as a model for improving learning outcomes in developing regions.

As Visiting Scholar/Researcher, Obaseki is expected to undertake an extensive study examining the successes, challenges and policy outcomes of his administration over eight years in office. The research, according to the university, is intended to provide valuable insights and practical guidance for public servants and reform-driven leaders across Africa.

Director of the African Studies Center and Walter G. Muelder Professor of Social Ethics, Professor Nimi Wariboko, described the appointment as significant for both the institution and the broader academic community.

“His affiliation with BU will enable him to interact with scholars here to refine his theoretical framework, hone his methodology for producing an empirical account of his tenure, and examine his policy framework against alternative models around the world. His affiliation with Boston University will also reflect positively on the ASC. His final output—in the form of book manuscript—will constitute a significant addition to the ASC’s scholarly contributions.

“His presence will also reactivate the historic practice of the ASC hosting prominent African public leaders who served with distinction and are willing to share their knowledge and experience with the Boston University community,” Wariboko said.

Reacting to the appointment, Obaseki expressed appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to global academic discourse on governance and development.

“I am excited by this appointment and the privilege it affords me to be part of this world-class university.

“As a Visiting Scholar/Researcher at the African Studies Center, I will have the opportunity to document, explain and review the strategies and frameworks that I adopted to transform the economic and social development landscape of Edo State, which I had the privilege to lead as Governor from 2016 to 2024.

“The rich tradition of rigorous scholarship, global perspective and commitment to tackling the world’s most pressing challenges at Boston University presents the ideal environment for reflection, learning, collaboration, and exchange of ideas,” Obaseki said.

Established in 1953, the African Studies Center at Boston University is regarded as one of the leading academic institutions for African studies globally. Designated by the US Department of Education as a Title VI National Resources Center, the ASC plays a major role in advancing research, scholarship and engagement on Africa and its development challenges.

Dean of the Pardee School of Global Studies, Professor Scott Taylor, also welcomed Obaseki’s appointment, noting that the former governor’s experience in governance and reform would enrich scholarly conversations on African political economy and public policy.

“We are delighted that Governor Obaseki is taking time to reflect on and write on his experience as a public-sector leader in ways that will benefit African economies. Boston University has a long history of supporting research and development in Africa,” Taylor said.

“We are honored to host Governor Obaseki in the ASC and at the Pardee School. We are delighted to play a role in facilitating the Governor’s reflections on African political economy and public policy, and we look forward to the contributions that will emerge from his time here,” he added.