The clarification followed widespread media reports announcing that UNN had named Adichie as one of several newly appointed visiting professors in a move described as part of efforts to reposition the institution on the global academic stage. The university was also said to have appointed African Development Bank executive Prof. Kevin Urama and Prof. James Robinson of the University of Chicago under the same arrangement.
However, in a statement issued on Wednesday by her communications team and signed by Omawumi Ogbe, Adichie refuted the reports, stressing that no such appointment was offered to her. The statement described the claims as false and misleading, adding that the writer had not been in any discussions with the university regarding a visiting professorship.
According to the statement, reports suggesting that official appointment letters were signed and dated December 18, 2025, were inaccurate. The communications team expressed disappointment that such a significant claim could be circulated without verification, particularly given the public profile of the author involved.
While reiterating Adichie’s personal connection to UNN, the statement noted that the institution holds deep sentimental value for her, as it was where she grew up and where her parents served as professor and registrar respectively. Despite this connection, it maintained that no formal or informal engagement had taken place concerning an academic appointment.
The public and media organisations were urged to disregard the reports and take down any published stories to prevent the further spread of misinformation.
Earlier announcements attributed to the university had quoted an official letter approved by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, which stated that Adichie’s alleged visiting professorship would add value to the academic community through lectures, scholarly engagement and mentorship.
As of the time of the clarification, UNN had yet to issue a public response addressing the contradiction between its earlier announcement and Adichie’s denial, leaving questions over the origin of the reported appointment.