Renowned author Chimamanda Adichie and her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, are mourning one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi.
The child died on Wednesday, after a brief illness, the family has confirmed.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the family said they are deeply affected by the loss and have asked the public for privacy during this difficult time.
The statement reads:
“We’re deeply saddened to confirm the passing of one of Ms Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr Ivara Esege’s twin boys, Nkanu Nnamdi, who passed on Wednesday, 7th of January 2026, after a brief illness. He was 21 months old.”
The family added:
“The family is devastated by this profound loss, and we request that their privacy be respected during this incredibly difficult time. We ask for your grace and prayers as they mourn in private. No further statements will be made, and we thank the public and the media for respecting their need for seclusion during this period of immense grief.”
Adichie is one of Nigeria’s most widely read contemporary writers. She has received global recognition for books such as Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah. Her work often explores themes of identity, culture, and human experience.
The author has previously spoken about her family in interviews and public appearances, including her experiences with motherhood. In 2025 she described how having children shaped her life, saying that motherhood was one of the greatest lessons she had learned.
Friends, colleagues, and fans have taken to social media to express sympathy and condolence for the family. At this time, no additional details about the child’s illness or service arrangements have been released.
