The Federal Government of Nigeria has fulfilled its promise to support the family of Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, the late designer of the Nigerian national flag, by donating N30 million two years after his passing.
The Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, officially presented the cheque to the Akinkunmi family on Thursday at their Elebu residence in Ibadan, Oyo State. He was accompanied by the Oyo State NOA Director, Olukemi Afolayan.
Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, a national hero, passed away on August 29, 2023, at the age of 87. Following his death, President Bola Tinubu sent a delegation, led by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Malagi, on September 4, 2023, to convey condolences and promise a national burial and financial support for his family.
During the cheque presentation, Issa-Onilu emphasized that the donation was a symbol of appreciation rather than payment for Akinkunmi’s contributions to the country.
“The donation of N30 million to the family of the 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,” he stated.
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The Nigerian flag, designed by Akinkunmi in 1959, has been a symbol of national identity since the country gained independence in 1960. His work remains one of Nigeria’s most iconic national symbols.
The late icon’s son, Akinwunmi Akinkunmi, expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government for honoring his father’s memory.
“We sincerely appreciate President Tinubu for this kind gesture. It means a lot to our family, and we are grateful for the recognition and support,” he said.
This donation comes as part of efforts by the Federal Government to recognize and honor the contributions of national figures who have shaped the country’s history.