The Federal Government has extended a financial gesture of N30 million to the family of the late Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, the designer of Nigeria’s national flag.
This presentation was made by Lanre Issa-Onilu, Director General of the National Orientation Agency, at Akinkunmi’s residence in Ibadan.
Akinkunmi, who passed away on August 29, 2023, at the age of 87, was honored for his significant contribution to the nation’s identity.
Born on May 10, 1936, in Ibadan, Akinkunmi hailed from Owu in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
In 1959, while studying in London, he entered a national competition to design Nigeria’s flag ahead of its impending independence.
His design, featuring a vertical green-white-green tricolor, was selected from nearly 3,000 entries.
The green stripes symbolise the country’s rich agricultural heritage, while the white stripe represents peace and unity.
The national flag was officially hoisted for the first time on October 1, 1960, marking Nigeria’s independence.
Akinkunmi’s legacy as the “Flag Man” remains a proud emblem of the nation’s history.
The recent financial support from the government highlights the nation’s appreciation for Akinkunmi’s enduring contribution to Nigeria’s identity.