Renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, are mourning the loss of one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi. The 21-month-old child passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, following a brief illness.
The family, through a statement issued by Omawumi Ogbe on Thursday, described their grief as “profound” and requested privacy during this difficult period.
The statement reads in part:
“We’re deeply saddened to confirm the passing of one of Ms. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr. Ivara Esege’s twin boys, Nkanu Nnamdi. 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.”
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No further statements will be issued, the family said, expressing gratitude to the public and media for honoring their need for seclusion during this period of immense grief.
The loss comes as a deeply emotional moment for the celebrated author and her family, who have previously shared glimpses of their life together with their children.