UNN appoints Chimamanda Adichie as visiting professor

Chimamanda Adichie

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has appointed acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Adichie as a Visiting Professor.

The announcement was made by the university’s acting Public Relations Officer on Wednesday.

The appointments, approved by UNN Vice‑Chancellor Prof. Simon Ortuanya, were conveyed through letters dated December 18. They are part of a strategy to strengthen the university’s academic profile and global partnerships.

In addition to Adichie, Prof. Kevin Urama, a senior executive at the African Development Bank, and Prof. James Robinson, a political economist from the University of Chicago, were also named Visiting Professors.

The appointees are expected to engage in teaching, research, mentorship, and academic collaboration.

Chimamanda Adichie is celebrated for her novels and essays, including Half of a Yellow Sun, Americanah, Purple Hibiscus, and We Should All Be Feminists.

Her appointment connects with her roots at UNN, where she grew up on campus and briefly studied medicine before further education abroad. Her role will enrich arts and humanities programs and provide mentorship for students and academics.

Prof. Kevin Urama brings expertise in development economics and climate policy, while Prof. James Robinson is recognised for his work on institutions, governance, and economic development. Their roles will strengthen UNN’s programs and global academic engagement.

The university said the appointments reflect a commitment to knowledge exchange, international collaboration, and bridging theory with practice, signalling UNN’s renewed drive for global excellence.