Nigerian-born Prof Ibironke Odumosu-Ayanu appointed dean at Canadian university

Nigerian-born legal scholar Prof. Ibironke Odumosu-Ayanu has been appointed dean of the University of Saskatchewan College of Law in Canada.

Odumosu-Ayanu will assume the position on October 1, 2026, for a five-year term, succeeding Martin Phillipson, who has completed two five-year terms as dean.

She currently serves as a professor and associate dean for research and graduate studies at the University of Saskatchewan College of Law, where she has been a faculty member since 2008.

The appointment was announced by Patti McDougall, interim provost and vice-president, academic at the University of Saskatchewan and chair of the search committee.

“Dr. Odumosu-Ayanu’s appointment as dean reflects a distinguished record of academic excellence, collaborative leadership, and dedication to advancing research and graduate education,” McDougall said.

“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.”

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Odumosu-Ayanu’s academic career has been shaped by training and professional experience in both Nigeria and Canada. She earned her LLB from the University of Lagos before obtaining an LLM from the University of Calgary and a PhD from the University of British Columbia.

Her research has earned international recognition, particularly in the area of business and human rights, while her academic work has also included the development of research collaborations involving institutions and scholars from different countries.

She has also built a substantial record in teaching and mentoring, including supervising graduate students in law and interdisciplinary programmes.

Her contributions to teaching and student support have been recognised with several awards, including the Provost’s College Award for Outstanding Teaching in 2012 and the USask InterD Advisor Award in 2026.

Beyond her academic responsibilities, Odumosu-Ayanu has participated in professional, academic and community organisations in Saskatchewan and across Canada. Her service includes board roles with professional associations, academic journals and community organisations, including the Saskatchewan Intercultural Association.

Professor Doug Surtees, who currently serves as interim dean, will remain in the role until September 30 before Odumosu-Ayanu takes over.