UNN Vice-Chancellor appoints Chimamanda Adichie as a Visiting Professor to enhance academic excellence.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adiche: Celebrated Author and Writer

UNN bolsters its global academic ranking by appointing Chimamanda Adichie and other world-class scholars as Visiting Professors.

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) is making a major power move to reclaim its spot on the world stage. The institution has officially announced the appointment of three global heavyweights as Visiting Professors: the celebrated author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, development economist Prof. Kevin Urama, and renowned political economist Prof. James Robinson.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, gave the green light for these appointments in official letters dated December 18, 2025.

This move is not just a symbolic gesture; it is a strategic push to transform the university’s academic landscape through high-level collaboration.

Chimamanda Adichie, a global literary icon, joins the faculty to enrich the Arts and Humanities. The university expects her presence to provide invaluable mentorship for students and young academics, bringing her world-class expertise in creative writing and intellectual discourse directly to the Nsukka campus.

Prof. Kevin Chika Urama: Development Economist

Also joining the team is Prof. Kevin Chika Urama, a distinguished figure at the African Development Bank. With his deep roots in development economics and climate policy, Prof. Urama is expected to sharpen the university’s research capabilities, particularly in evidence-based policymaking.

The third appointee, Prof. James Robinson of the University of Chicago, is famous globally for his groundbreaking work on governance and institutions. 

His involvement will expose UNN’s staff and students to cutting-edge scholarship in political economy, further bridging the gap between local research and global standards. 

‎Prof. James Robinson: Renowned political Economist

Accordingto the university’s acting PRO, Mr. Inya Agha Egwu, these appointments align with a broader vision to restore UNN’s legacy as a globally competitive institution. He noted that these scholars would help bridge the divide between theoretical knowledge and real-world practice.

With a total of four high-profile visiting professors appointed this December alone, UNN is sending a clear signal. The "Lions" are ready to roar on the global stage, prioritizing academic excellence and international networking for the next generation of Nigerian scholars.