UNN appoints Chimamanda Adichie, others as visiting professors

Chimamanda Adichie

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The University of Nigeria, Nsukka has appointed globally-renowned writer Chimamanda Adichie, African Development Bank executive, Prof. Kevin Urama, and Prof. James Robinson of the University of Chicago as Visiting Professors, in a move aimed at repositioning the institution on the global academic stage.

The appointments, approved by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, were conveyed through official letters dated December 18, 2025.

According to the university, the Visiting Professors are expected to engage in teaching, collaborative research, mentorship, and strategic academic interactions that will strengthen UNN’s global standing.

Chimamanda Adichie, one of the world’s most influential literary voices, was appointed in recognition of her outstanding contributions to literature, creative writing, and global intellectual discourse. The university noted that her engagement would significantly enrich the arts and humanities.

“Her Visiting Professorship will add immense value to our academic community through lectures, scholarly engagements, and the mentorship of students and young academics,” the university stated.

Prof. Kevin Chika Urama, a distinguished development economist and senior official at the African Development Bank, was appointed based on his extensive expertise in development economics, climate policy, and evidence-based policymaking.

UNN said his presence would strengthen teaching and research, particularly in economics, development studies, and related disciplines.

Also appointed is Prof. James Robinson, a globally respected political economist at the University of Chicago, widely known for his work on institutions, governance, and economic development.

The university said his Visiting Professorship is expected to deepen academic collaboration and expose students and lecturers to cutting-edge global scholarship in political economy and development studies.

Speaking on the appointments in a statement issued on Wednesday, the Acting Public Relations Officer of the university, Mr. Inya Agha Egwu, said the move aligns with the Vice-Chancellor’s commitment to attracting eminent global scholars to UNN.

“The University of Nigeria was founded to be a globally competitive institution. These appointments represent a significant step towards reclaiming that legacy and enhancing the university’s global relevance,” Egwu said.

He explained that the Visiting Professorships are designed to promote knowledge exchange, strengthen international linkages, and bridge the gap between theory, policy, and practice.

Egwu further disclosed that the latest appointments bring the number of Visiting Professors appointed by the Vice-Chancellor in December 2025 to four, describing the development as “a clear signal of UNN’s renewed drive for global excellence.”

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