The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has named celebrated author Chimamanda Adichie, African Development Bank executive Prof. Kevin Urama, and University of Chicago scholar Prof. James Robinson as Visiting Professors, as part of efforts to elevate the institution’s profile on the global academic scene.
The appointments were approved by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, and communicated through official letters dated December 18, 2025.
The university said the Visiting Professors will participate in teaching, joint research, mentorship, and high-level academic engagements aimed at enhancing UNN’s international reputation.
Chimamanda Adichie was appointed in recognition of her exceptional impact on literature, creative writing, and global intellectual conversations. UNN said her involvement would greatly strengthen 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 renowned development economist and senior official at the African Development Bank, was appointed for his vast experience in development economics, climate policy, and evidence-based policymaking.
According to UNN, his appointment is expected to boost teaching and research, especially in economics, development studies, and related fields.
Also appointed is Prof. James Robinson, a leading political economist at the University of Chicago, internationally recognised for his work on institutions, governance, and economic development.
The university said his Visiting Professorship would enhance academic collaboration and expose staff and students to advanced global scholarship in political economy and development studies.
Commenting on the appointments, the Acting Public Relations Officer, Mr. Inya Agha Egwu, said the decision reflects the Vice-Chancellor’s determination to attract world-class scholars to the institution.
“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 added that the Visiting Professorship initiative is aimed at promoting knowledge exchange, strengthening international partnerships, and linking theory with policy and practice.
Egwu further revealed that the new appointments bring the total number of Visiting Professors approved by the Vice-Chancellor in December 2025 to four, describing the development as “a clear signal of UNN’s renewed drive for global excellence.”