On 10 July 2025, world-famous Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie took a nostalgic trip down memory lane — straight to the doorstep of her first-ever teacher.
The Half of a Yellow Sun writer paid an unannounced visit to her former kindergarten teacher, Pa Raphael Idoko, at his home in Nsukka, Enugu State. The emotional reunion, captured in photos and shared on her Instagram and X accounts on 11 August, quickly melted hearts online.
Adichie, who grew up in Nsukka, was taught by Pa Idoko in the early 1980s. Back then, he described her in a 1982 report card as “a bright and intelligent child who talks a lot” — a remark that now feels like an uncannily accurate prophecy.
During her recent trip to Nsukka — which also included a meeting with Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah — Adichie decided to make her way to her old teacher’s home. Pa Idoko recognised her almost immediately, sparking warm hugs, laughter, and a few shared memories.
“He taught me in kindergarten, but the impact has lasted a lifetime,” she wrote in her post. She also chuckled when Pa Idoko pointed out that he once called her simply “Ngozi.” Her reply? “Ngozi is still my name.”
The internet loved it. Within days, her X post had over 16,900 likes, 1,672 reposts, and hundreds of comments praising her humility. Blogs and news sites labelled it a “heartwarming moment” and called for more recognition of teachers.
In a country where educators are often undervalued, Adichie’s gesture felt like more than just a personal visit — it was a public reminder of how early teachers shape lives. And, as one commenter put it, “This is how you give a teacher extra years on earth — with joy.”
