• Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, are grieving the loss of their 21-month-old twin son, Nkanu Nnamdi, who died on January 7, 2026, after a brief illness.
• The family has appealed for privacy and prayers during this painful period

Acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her spouse, Dr. Ivara Esege, are grieving the passing of one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi, as confirmed by their family.

On Thursday, the family, through a statement issued by Omawumi Ogbe, announced that the 21-month-old child passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, after suffering from a brief illness.

“We are heartbroken to confirm the passing of one of Ms. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr. Ivara Esege’s twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi, who died on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, following a short illness. He was 21 months old,” the statement read.

The family expressed the profound impact of their loss and requested that the public honor their privacy as they navigate this challenging period.

The family described the loss as devastating and asked the public to respect their privacy during this difficult time.

“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 are expected as the family continues to grieve. Messages of sympathy and support have been shared across social media by fans, fellow writers, and admirers around the world.