I was born with a silver spoon, but lost it early in life, says Nigerian author Ndifreke Ukpong on his birthday |

Nigerian author Ndifreke Ukpong has narrated his life journey, revealing that although he was born into comfort, his life took a difficult and unexpected turn following the death of his parents during his teenage years.

Speaking in Ekpri Ikot Ene, Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State, the author of A Future in Chains said he was “born with a silver spoon,” a phrase he used to describe the privilege and stability that marked his early years.

However, he explained that circumstances beyond his control stripped him of that comfort at a young age, forcing him to confront hardship and uncertainty much earlier than anticipated.

According to Ukpong, the loss of his parents exposed him to life’s harsh realities, including struggle, responsibility, and self-discovery. He noted that those difficult experiences played a significant role in shaping his character, worldview, and passion for writing.

Through resilience and determination, he said he learned to rise above despair and transform pain into purpose.

Ukpong observed that many people across society often begin life with promise, stability, and hope, only to encounter unexpected challenges that alter their paths. He emphasized that such experiences should not define the end of one’s journey but rather serve as lessons that strengthen character and resolve.

“Let my story inspire you,” he told his audience. “Never give up in your time of difficulty. I went through hardship before I found my silver spoon again.”

The author further encouraged young people facing adversity to remain steadfast, stressing that perseverance, discipline, and faith in oneself can revive lost dreams and open new opportunities.

Ukpong marked his birthday with the release of his newly published novel, A Visit of Karma, a literary work that explores themes of love, betrayal, and the inevitable consequences of human actions. The novel adds to his growing body of work and reflects his continued commitment to storytelling that mirrors real-life struggles and moral lessons.

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