[Sender’s Address]
No. 25, Ogundipe Street,
Ibadan, Oyo State.
23rd September, 2025.
Dear Sister Ronke,
How are you doing, my dearest sister? It has been a long time since we last saw each other, and I miss you dearly. I hope your work is going well and that everyone in your household is doing fine. Please extend my warm regards to your husband and the children.
I know you must have been disappointed that I could not visit you during the last holiday as I had earlier promised. Believe me, I was equally unhappy about it, but circumstances beyond my control prevented me from coming. I have decided to explain everything in this letter so that you will understand.
First, just a week before the holiday began, Mother fell seriously ill. She had a persistent fever and could hardly carry out her daily activities. Father had to take her to the hospital, and I was left at home to take care of the younger ones. You can imagine how busy I became—preparing meals, helping with chores, and ensuring that the house was in order. In such a situation, there was no way I could leave for Lagos.
Secondly, our final-year project at school was rescheduled to take place during the same holiday. My group was assigned to research the use of waste materials in making compost manure. Since I was the group leader, I could not abandon my team. We had to meet regularly to collect materials, prepare samples, and write our report. This consumed a great deal of my time and tied me down throughout the break.
To make matters more challenging, transportation costs skyrocketed during the period. Father explained that the fares had almost doubled, and considering the hospital bills and other expenses at home, it was not wise to make the trip at that time. Though I was disappointed, I understood the situation perfectly.
Despite all these setbacks, I kept thinking of you and the children. I had looked forward to spending time with you, listening to your advice, and enjoying the delicious meals you always prepare. Please do not be upset with me, Sister. It was never my intention to disappoint you.
I promise to make it up to you during the next holiday, God willing. By then, Mother’s health will hopefully be stable, my school project will be completed, and transportation will not be as burdensome. I am eagerly looking forward to our reunion.
Thank you for always being so understanding. Please give the children a big hug from me and tell them their uncle will visit soon.
With love from your caring brother,
Kunle
What Examiners Want to See
- Proper informal letter format – address, date, salutation, and closing.
- Clear explanation – reasons given: mother’s illness, school project, high transport costs.
- Tone of apology and affection – showing respect to an elder sister.
- Logical flow – reasons arranged in order.
- Personal touch – feelings of disappointment and promise to make it up.
- Word count – minimum 450 words.
Tips for Students
- When explaining absence, always give specific, believable reasons.
- Maintain a respectful and apologetic tone.
- Show your personal emotions (sadness, regret, hope).
- End with a promise or plan for the future.