Nigerian renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s toddler twins has died, her family has confirmed.
An official family statement said her 21-month-old boy Nkanu Nnamdi died on Wednesday after a brief illness.
President Bola Tinubu extended condolences towards the grieving parent in a post on X: “With a deep sense of grief, I condole with Ms Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie @ChimamandaReal , her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, and the entire family on the passing of their son, Nkanu Nnamdi.
“As a parent myself who has suffered the loss of a loved one, no grief is as devastating as losing a child.
“I empathise with the family at this difficult time, and I mourn this sad loss with them.
“Ms Adichie is a literary icon who has brought joy and light to many homes globally, and I pray she and her family find strength in the Almighty in this trying hour.
“My prayers are with the family.”
2023 presidential hopeful Peter Obi who is close to the famous writer share in the grieve of the parent, stated: “With Deepest Sympathy on the Loss of Nkanu
“I have been following Nkanu’s illness since my beloved sister, Chimamanda, first informed me on January 2nd. During this difficult time, I felt a deep sense of empathy for her and her family. I shared in their anxiety, prayed earnestly, and hoped for his recovery. Therefore, the news I received yesterday morning was profoundly heartbreaking.
“I am personally devastated, thinking of the immense pain my dear sister must be experiencing as a mother, along with her husband, Dr Ivara.
“My heartfelt condolences go to them and the entire family during this moment of indescribable loss. May God grant them the strength, comfort, and grace to bear this sorrow, and may Nkanu’s saintly soul rest in perfect peace.” He wrote.
The couple’s son, Nkanu Nnamdi, one of their twin boys, passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, after a brief illness.
