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The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), 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.
UNN said the visiting professors will participate in teaching, joint research, mentorship and other academic engagements aimed at enhancing the institution’s global profile.
Chimamanda Adichie, an acclaimed Nigerian author known for her influential novels and global impact on contemporary literature, was appointed in recognition of her remarkable contributions to literature, creative writing and global intellectual discourse.
UNN added that her involvement would greatly strengthen its arts and humanities programmes.
“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.
Speaking on the appointments in a statement issued on Wednesday, Mr Inya Agha Egwu, the Acting Public Relations Officer of the university, 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 stated that the Visiting Professorships aim to promote knowledge exchange, deepen international partnerships, and connect academic theory with policy and practice.
The university also appointed Prof. Kevin Chika Urama, a senior African Development Bank official, citing his expertise in development economics, climate policy and evidence-based policymaking, which is expected to strengthen teaching and research at UNN.
Prof. James Robinson, a renowned political economist at the University of Chicago, was also named a Visiting Professor.
UNN said his appointment would deepen academic collaboration and expose students and faculty to global scholarship in political economy and development studies.
Egwu stated that the latest appointments bring the number of Visiting Professors named by the Vice-Chancellor in December 2025 to four, describing the move as a clear signal of UNN’s renewed push for global excellence.
