The Federal Government of Nigeria has fulfilled its promise of financial support to the family of the late Taiwo Akinkunmi, the man who designed Nigeria’s national flag. A cheque of N30 million was officially handed over to his family in Ibadan, Oyo State, two years after his passing.
The Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, led the delegation that presented the cheque at Akinkunmi’s Elebu residence. He was accompanied by the agency’s Oyo State Director, Olukemi Afolayan. The financial support was given in recognition of the late designer’s contributions to Nigeria’s national identity.
Akinkunmi, who passed away on August 29, 2023, at the age of 87, is remembered for his role in creating Nigeria’s iconic green and white flag, which symbolizes peace and agricultural wealth. His design was chosen in 1959, a year before Nigeria gained independence, and has since remained a strong symbol of the nation.
During a condolence visit on September 4, 2023, President Bola Tinubu’s government had pledged to provide financial aid to Akinkunmi’s family and honor him with a national burial.
The NOA DG noted, “The donation of N30 million to the family of renowned National Flag designer was not to pay for the services of the late legend but to support his family in appreciation of his contributions to the country.”
One of Akinkunmi’s sons, Akinwunmi Akinkunmi, expressed gratitude on behalf of the family, thanking President Tinubu and his administration for the kind gesture.
