Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie mourns loss of twin son

Renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, are mourning the loss of one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi, who passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, following a brief illness.

The family, who have largely kept their personal lives private, confirmed that the child’s death came unexpectedly, leaving them and close relatives in deep grief.

Friends and colleagues of Adichie have taken to social media to offer condolences, describing the loss as heartbreaking for the celebrated author and her family.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, acclaimed for works such as Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah, has previously shared reflections on family and parenthood, making this loss particularly poignant for her supporters worldwide.

No further details about the circumstances of Nkanu Nnamdi’s passing have been disclosed, but the couple is understood to be surrounded by close family as they mourn.