LAGOS — Renowned Nigerian novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, have announced the tragic passing of one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi.
The toddler died on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the age of 21 months following a brief illness. The news was confirmed in a family statement released on Thursday by Omawumi Ogbe.
“The family is devastated by this profound loss, and we request that their privacy be respected during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement read. The family further appealed for “grace and prayers” while indicating that no additional public statements would be made during this period of seclusion and grief.
Adichie, the celebrated author of Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah, has been married to Dr. Esege since 2009. The couple, known for maintaining a strictly private family life, has a daughter born in 2016 and welcomed their twin boys in early 2024.
The literary community and fans worldwide have begun expressing their condolences to the family following the announcement of the sudden loss.
