The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has appointed celebrated author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, African Development Bank executive Prof. Kevin Chika Urama, and University of Chicago scholar Prof. James Robinson as Visiting Professors, as part of efforts to strengthen the institution’s global academic profile.
The appointments, which were approved by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, were formally communicated to the appointees in letters dated December 18, 2025.
According to the university, the visiting professors are expected to contribute to teaching, collaborative research, mentorship and strategic academic engagements that will enhance UNN’s international visibility and academic impact.
Adichie, one of the world’s most influential literary figures, was appointed in recognition of her remarkable contributions to literature, creative writing and global intellectual discourse. The university said her engagement would significantly enrich teaching and scholarship in the arts and humanities.
“Her Visiting Professorship will add immense value to our academic community through public lectures, scholarly interactions and the mentorship of students and young academics,” the university stated.
Prof. Urama, a renowned development economist and senior official at the African Development Bank, was appointed based on his expertise in development economics, climate policy and evidence-based policymaking. UNN noted that his presence would strengthen teaching and research in economics, development studies and related fields.
Also appointed is Prof. James Robinson, a respected political economist at the University of Chicago, known globally for his work on institutions, governance and economic development. The university said his appointment would deepen academic collaboration and expose students and faculty to cutting-edge global scholarship.
Commenting on the appointments, UNN’s Acting Public Relations Officer, Mr. Inya Agha Egwu, said the move reflects the Vice-Chancellor’s commitment to attracting world-class scholars to the institution.
“The University of Nigeria was founded to be globally competitive. These appointments are a significant step towards reclaiming that legacy and strengthening our relevance on the global academic stage,” Egwu said.
He added that the visiting professorship programme is designed to promote knowledge exchange, strengthen international partnerships and bridge the gap between academic theory, public policy and real-world practice.
Egwu further disclosed that the latest appointments bring the number of Visiting Professors named by the Vice-Chancellor in December 2025 to four, describing the development as a clear signal of UNN’s renewed drive towards global academic excellence.
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