The Federal Government has donated N30 million to the family of the late Taiwo Akinkunmi, the designer of Nigeria’s national flag, in recognition of his contributions to the nation’s identity.
The donation was presented on Thursday at Akinkunmi’s residence in Elebu, Ibadan, by the Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, accompanied by the Oyo State Director of the agency, Olukemi Afolayan.
Issa-Onilu emphasized that the financial support was not a form of compensation but a gesture of appreciation for Akinkunmi’s lasting impact on Nigeria.
He described the late national icon as a man whose legacy would continue to inspire generations.
Receiving the donation, Akinwunmi Akinkunmi, one of the late flag designer’s sons, expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the kind gesture.
He acknowledged the government’s efforts in honoring his father’s memory and supporting the family.
Taiwo Akinkunmi passed away on August 29, 2023, at the age of 87. Following his death, President Tinubu sent a government delegation led by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Malagi, to condole with the family.
After nearly a year of awaiting government intervention, Akinkunmi was laid to rest in September 2024 in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
His funeral service was held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Liberty Road, Ibadan, where dignitaries, family members, and well-wishers gathered to pay their last respects.
During the burial ceremony, Akinwunmi Akinkunmi stated that the family was open to any manner in which the Federal Government deemed fit to immortalize his father’s legacy.
Akinkunmi’s design of Nigeria’s national flag, a green-white-green emblem symbolizing agriculture and peace, remains one of the country’s most enduring national symbols.
His contributions to Nigeria’s history and identity continue to be celebrated even after his passing.