The vice-chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Simon Ortuanya, has appointed Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie as a visiting professor.

The university also appointed African Development Bank executive Kevin Urama and a professor at the University of Chicago, James Robinson, as visiting professors of UNN, according to statement on Wednesday.

The statement said that the appointments dated December 18 were part of the drive by Mr Ortuanya’s administration to put the university on the global academic stage.

The letters of appointments outlined the roles and expectations of visiting professors to include teaching engagements, research collaboration, mentorship, and strategic academic interactions, among others.

Ms Adichie, considered 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.

”Her visiting professorship will enrich the arts and humanities through lectures, scholarly engagements, and mentorship of students and young academics.

“Prof Urama, a renowned development economist and senior official at the African Development Bank, is 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.

“While Prof James Robinson is a political economist at the University of Chicago, whose work on institutions, governance, and economic development has earned global recognition,” it said.

The statement added that the visiting professors were expected to deepen academic collaboration and advance research as well as expose students and lecturers to cutting-edge global scholarship in political economy and development studies.

It noted that the appointments aligned with the commitment of the VC to attract eminent global scholars and industry leaders to UNN, in line with the vision of its founding fathers.

“UNN was founded to be a globally competitive institution; the latest appointments represent a significant step towards reclaiming that legacy and enhancing its global relevance,” it said.

(NAN)