The University of Saskatchewan College of Law (USask) in Canada on Tuesday appointed Nigerian Dr Ibironke Odumosu-Ayanu as its new dean for the next five years.

Making the announcement, the interim provost and vice-president, academic, and chair of the search committee for the new dean, Patti Mcdougall, said, “Dr Odumosu-Ayanu’s appointment as dean reflects a distinguished record of academic excellence, collaborative leadership, and dedication to advancing research and graduate education.

“Her work as dean will continue to build on the College of Law’s strong reputation for excellence in legal education and research, while strengthening its leadership in Indigenous legal scholarship and engagement with local and global communities.”

Ms Odumosu-Ayanu will assume office on October 1, succeeding Martin Philipson, who held the role for the past two years.

Before her appointment, she served as associate dean, research and graduate studies at the college and has been a member of the College of Law since 2008.

She earned undergraduate degree in Law at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), before pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees at the University of Canada and the University of British Columbia respectively.

She is recognised as an internationally respected law professor and researcher in business and human rights, international investment law, and natural resource governance.

Her efforts in student support were recognised by the institution, with honours including a Provost’s College Award for Outstanding Teaching in 2012 and the USask InterD Advisor Award this year.

Dr Odumosu-Ayanu has also been involved in several boards of professional associations, including the Saskatchewan Intercultural Association.