Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s 21-month-old son dies after brief illness
Renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband Dr. Ivara Esege are mourning the death of their 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi, after he succumbed to a brief illness on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, the family has confirmed in a statement. The devastating news was shared by the family’s representative, who said the couple and their loved ones are deeply saddened by the loss and have asked the public and media to respect their privacy as they grieve in this difficult period.
Nkanu Nnamdi was one of the twin boys the author and her husband welcomed in 2024 via surrogate, a joyful moment that followed the birth of their daughter in 2016. The family’s statement stressed that their hearts are heavy with sorrow and that they are asking for grace, prayers and seclusion as they mourn the profound loss of their young child.
Chimamanda Adichie, widely recognised for her influential literary works including Half of a Yellow Sun, Americanah, and We Should All Be Feminists, has previously shared personal stories of loss and resilience in her writing. Her statement on the death of Nkanu reflects yet another personal tragedy amid her celebrated career. Public figures, including Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, have expressed condolences, acknowledging the deep pain that comes with losing a child and offering sympathies to the family.
The author’s fans, colleagues in the literary community and supporters worldwide have extended messages of sympathy, remembering Nkanu as a treasured young life and urging respect for the family’s need for privacy as they navigate this heartbreaking moment.
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