Ben Ezechime, Enugu
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Professor Simon Ortuanya, has appointed renowned writer and novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie; African Development Bank (AfDB) executive Professor, Kevin Chika Urama; and Professor James Robinson of the University of Chicago; as Visiting Professors of the University.
A statement issued by the University said the appointments are part of efforts to reposition UNN on the global academic stage. The appointments were conveyed through official letters dated December 18, 2025, and signed by the Vice-Chancellor.
According to the statement, the letters outlined the roles and expectations of the Visiting Professors, including teaching engagements, research collaboration, mentorship, and strategic academic interactions.
Chimamanda Adichie, described as one of the most influential literary voices in the world, was appointed in recognition of her outstanding contributions to literature, creative writing, and global intellectual discourse. The University noted that her Visiting Professorship will enrich the arts and humanities through lectures, scholarly engagements, and mentorship of students and young academics.
Professor Urama, a renowned development economist and senior official at the African Development Bank, was appointed in view of his extensive expertise in development economics, climate policy, and evidence-based policymaking. His engagement is expected to strengthen teaching, research, and policy-oriented programmes, particularly in economics, development studies, and related disciplines.
The third appointee, Professor James Robinson, is a political economist at the University of Chicago whose work on institutions, governance, and economic development has earned global recognition. According to his appointment letter, his Visiting Professorship is intended to deepen academic collaboration, advance research, and expose students and lecturers to cutting-edge global scholarship in political economy and development studies.
The statement quoted the Acting Public Relations Officer of the University, Inya Agha-Egwu, as saying that the appointments align with the Vice-Chancellor’s commitment to attracting eminent global scholars and industry leaders to UNN, in line with the vision of the institution’s founding fathers.
“The University of Nigeria was founded to be a globally competitive institution. These latest appointments represent a significant step towards reclaiming that legacy and enhancing its global relevance,” he said.
Agha-Egwu explained that the Visiting Professorships are designed to promote knowledge exchange, strengthen international linkages, and bridge the gap between theory, policy, and practice.
