Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and husband mourn the loss of their young son

Zuko Komisa

Author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr Ivara Esege are mourning the death of their 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi.
The child, one of the couple’s toddler twins, passed away on 7 January after a short period of ill health.
A family statement has called for privacy as they navigate the loss of their young son.

The family of celebrated Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, have confirmed the tragic death of their 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi.

The toddler, who was one of the couple’s twin sons, passed away on Tuesday, 7 January 2026, following a brief illness.

A formal statement released by Omawumi Ogbe on Wednesday confirmed the news, requesting that the public respect the family’s privacy during this period of immense grief.

The loss has prompted an outpouring of sympathy for Adichie, who is widely regarded as one of the most influential African writers of her generation.

Adichie is the acclaimed author of Purple Hibiscus, Half of a Yellow Sun, and Americanah.

Her work and essays have significantly shaped global discourse on identity and gender. The literary community and readers worldwide have begun sharing messages of condolence as the family seeks comfort and grace through this difficult time.