The Federal Government has donated ₦30 million to the family of the late Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, designer of Nigeria’s national flag, nearly two years after his passing.
The Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, officially presented the cheque at the residence of the late Akinkunmi in Elebu, Ibadan, Oyo State. He was accompanied by the Oyo State Director of NOA, Olukemi Afolayan.
Akinkunmi, who designed the iconic Green-White-Green flag, passed away on August 29, 2023, at the age of 87.
Speaking during the visit, Issa-Onilu emphasized that the donation was not a payment for the late designer’s contributions but rather a token of appreciation and support for his family.
“We are here in the home of a great citizen of this country who developed the national flag that we all know as Green White Green that we use up till today,” he said. “Entries were made by several Nigerians, and his design was considered the most representative of who we are as a people. Sixty-four years later, we are still using that flag, which shows the creativity and ingenuity of this very important Nigerian.”
He assured the family that the government’s appreciation would be continuous, urging them to uphold the legacy of their late father.
On behalf of the family, Akinwunmi Akinkunmi expressed gratitude for the government’s gesture, stating that it reaffirmed national recognition of his father’s contributions.
Before visiting the Akinkunmi residence, the NOA DG also toured the Akinyele Trailer Park, where he warned residents against scooping petrol from crashed tankers. He highlighted the dangers of fuel explosions, referencing recent tragedies in Enugu and Niger states that claimed multiple lives.
