Family of author Chimamanda Ngozi Adiche share that one of her toddler twins has died

Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and her husband, Dr Ivara Esege’s 21-month old son, Nkanu Nnamdi has died tragically at just 21-months old. A statement from the family read: “We’re deeply saddened to confirm the passing of one of Ms Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr Ivara Esege’s twin boys, Nkanu Nnamdi, who passed on Wednesday, 7th of January 2026, after a brief illness. He was 21 months old.

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

In an interview with The Guardian last year, Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie said: “I want to protect my children,”and added that. “I’m OK with having them mentioned, but I don’t want the piece to become about them.”

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie was born in Nigeria and later moved to the United States. According to Harper Collins, “Her works often delve into the intricacies of cultural identity, the African diaspora, and the complexities of modern society, resonating with readers across the globe. From her debut novel Purple Hibiscus" to her internationally acclaimed Americanah, Adichie's books have consistently garnered critical acclaim and a devoted readership.”

In April of last year, she was awarded an honorary degree from the Sorbonne University in Paris and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie documented the occasion on Instagram. She wrote: “A great honor, indeed, to be honored with an honorary degree from Sorbonne University in Paris.”

In response, one fan wrote: “The name, Chimamanda, is so powerful that you can not but win every now and then. Congratulations, Odeluwa,” whilst another said: “Congratulations Queen! You are very deserving. Keep rising! Keep inspiring! Keep reaching new heights🫶🏼🙏🏽🎉💫🥂.”

In an interview with British Vogue in 2016 about Why Make-up still matters, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie said: “I think that for a while I just thought that I couldn’t possibly wear the lipstick I wanted to wear because I felt that I would be judged. I think that changed just with getting older, getting more comfortable in my own skin, and realising that life is so damn short. There is just no point in living life based on what you imagine people expect.”