The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has announced the appointment of acclaimed writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, African Development Bank executive Prof. Kevin Urama, and Prof. James Robinson of the University of Chicago as Visiting Professors — a strategic move designed to elevate the university’s global academic profile.
Their appointments, endorsed by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, were formally communicated through letters dated December 18, 2025.
According to the university, the Visiting Professors will contribute through teaching, collaborative research, mentorship programmes, and high-level academic engagements aimed at strengthening UNN’s international reputation.
Chimamanda Adichie — widely regarded as one of the world’s most influential literary voices — was appointed in recognition of her remarkable contributions to literature, creative writing, and global intellectual discourse. The university added that her involvement is expected to greatly enrich scholarship in the arts and humanities.
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) says the appointment of Chimamanda Adichie as a Visiting Professor will greatly benefit the academic community through lectures, scholarly activities, and mentorship for students and young scholars.
The university also appointed Prof. Kevin Chika Urama, a leading development economist and senior African Development Bank official, in recognition of his expertise in development economics, climate policy, and evidence-based policymaking.
UNN says his role will enhance teaching and research, especially in economics and development-related fields.
Prof. James Robinson, a renowned political economist from the University of Chicago and acclaimed for his influential research on institutions, governance, and economic development, was also appointed as a Visiting Professor.
According to the university, his appointment is expected to strengthen academic collaboration while exposing both students and faculty to cutting-edge global scholarship in political economy and development studies.
Commenting on the appointments in a statement issued on Wednesday, the Acting Public Relations Officer, Mr. Inya Agha Egwu, said the development reflects the Vice-Chancellor’s commitment to attracting distinguished global scholars to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
The University of Nigeria has appointed four Visiting Professors in December 2025 to strengthen global partnerships, promote knowledge exchange, and enhance the university’s international standing, signaling a renewed drive for global excellence.