Renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, are mourning the loss of one of their sons, Nkanu Nnamdi.

In a statement released on Thursday January 8, 2026, Omawumi Ogbe on behalf of the family, it was confirmed that the 21-month-old child passed away on Wednesday, January 7, following a brief illness.

The statement said the family is devastated by the loss and requested privacy during this difficult time.

It reads: “We’re deeply saddened to confirm the passing of one of Ms Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr. Ivara Esege’s twin boys, Nnamdi, who passed on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, after a brief illness. He was 21 months old.

“The family is devastated by his 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 will be made, and we thank the public and media for respecting their need for seclusion during this period of immense grief”.