By Danjuma Amodu | January 9, 2026
In a deeply personal statement issued Thursday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, her husband Dr Ivara Esege and their family following the tragic death of their 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi.
“The loss of a child is unlike any other sorrow,” President Tinubu wrote. “As a parent who has also walked through the valley of grief, I know no pain compares to burying your own child.”
The President praised Adichie as “a literary icon whose words have illuminated homes across continents,” offering prayers for the family’s strength and comfort during this “trying hour.”
“My prayers are with the Adichie-Esege family as they mourn,” he added.
Nkanu Nnamdi’s passing was announced by the family on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, following a brief illness. In their statement, they respectfully requested privacy and thanked the public for their sympathy.
Tinubu’s message underscores the outpouring of support for Adichie and her husband, Dr. Esege over the passing of their child. Adichie’s celebrated works include Half of a Yellow Sun, Americanah and Purple Hibiscus, amongst others.
Across Nigeria and the global literary community, grief has been met with solidarity:
In the same vein, former Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi posted on his X handle.
“I’ve followed little Nkanu’s illness since early January. I’m personally devastated. No parent deserves to bury their child. May God grant Chimamanda, Ivara, and their family supernatural strength.”
Social media platforms is replete with messages of comfort, from intimate prayers like; (“Lord, wrap Your arms around her and her loved ones”) to universal reflections on motherhood and loss (“There is no greater sorrow than losing a child”).
Respecting the family’s wishes, most commentators refrained from speculating about the cause of death or funeral arrangements. Instead, they honoured the space given by Adichie and Dr. Esege, choosing solidarity over intrusion.
