President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his heartfelt condolences to renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her family following the tragic death of her son, Nkanu Nnamdi. The President described the loss of a child as one of the most profound forms of grief in a message shared on his official X account on January 8, 2026.
In his statement, President Tinubu expressed his sorrow, stating, “With a deep sense of grief, I condole with Ms. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, and the entire family on the passing of their son, Nkanu Nnamdi.” He noted the deep emotional impact such a loss can have, drawing from his own experiences as a parent. “No grief is as devastating as losing a child,” he remarked.
Tributes and Solidarity
The President offered his support to Adichie during this challenging time, saying, “I empathise with the family at this difficult time, and I mourn this sad loss with them.” He highlighted the global influence of Adichie, calling her a literary icon who has brought joy and inspiration to many readers worldwide.
Tinubu’s message included a prayer for strength for Adichie and her family, emphasizing the impact of her work and the legacy she has created. “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,” he stated.
The passing of Nkanu Nnamdi has resonated deeply within the Nigerian community and beyond, reflecting the widespread admiration for Adichie and her contributions to literature. As tributes continue to pour in, the President’s message serves as a reminder of the shared human experience of grief and the importance of community support in times of sorrow.
In concluding his message, President Tinubu said, “My prayers are with the family,” underscoring the collective mourning felt by many for the loss of a young life.
