The Federal Government has fulfilled its promise of financial support to the family of Taiwo Akinkunmi, the late designer of Nigeria’s national flag, by donating ₦30 million in recognition of his contributions to the nation.
Akinkunmi, who passed away on August 30, 2023, at 87 years old, was buried on September 6, 2024, after his family’s prolonged wait for a promised state burial that never materialized.
On Thursday, January 30, 2025, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, alongside the Oyo State NOA Director, Olukemi Afolayan, presented the ₦30 million cheque to the Akinkunmi family in Ibadan, Oyo State.
“Not a Payment, but a Token of Appreciation”
Issa-Onilu emphasized that the donation was not a payment for Akinkunmi’s services, but rather a gesture of appreciation for his patriotic contribution to Nigeria.
The donation of ₦30 million to the family of the renowned national flag designer was not to pay for his services, but to support his family in appreciation of his contributions to the country
Issa-Onilu stated.
Unfulfilled State Burial, But Financial Promise Honored
Following Akinkunmi’s death, President Bola Tinubu pledged financial support and a national burialfor the late patriot when Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, led a government delegation to visit his family on September 4, 2023.
While the state burial did not happen, the financial pledge has now been fulfilled.
Akinkunmi’s Family Expresses Gratitude
Speaking on behalf of the family, Akinwunmi Akinkunmi, one of the deceased’s sons, expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu and the Federal Government.
We deeply appreciate the kind gesture from President Tinubu and the federal government. This support means a lot to our family
he said.
A Legacy That Lives On
Taiwo Akinkunmi designed Nigeria’s national flag in 1959, ahead of the country’s independence in 1960. His green-white-green design remains one of the most powerful symbols of Nigerian identity, representing agriculture, peace, and unity.
While many believe his contributions deserved greater recognition during his lifetime, this donation serves as a long-overdue acknowledgment of his impact on the nation.
