Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has commended the designer of the Nigerian flag, the late Taiwo Akinkunmi, for his outstanding contribution to national unity, describing him as a legendary personality and patriot who will forever be remembered.
He stated this during a visit to the Akinkunmi family in Ibadan, Oyo State, as posted today on the NOA X handle.
Issa-Onilu described the late Akinkunmi as a shining example of patriotism and selflessness, noting that Akinkunmi’s iconic design of the national flag has become an integral part of Nigeria’s heritage, symbolizing the country’s unity and identity.
In appreciation of the family of the late Akinkunmi for his selfless service and invaluable contribution to Nigeria’s national identity, Onilu presented them with a cheque of N30 million on behalf of the federal government.
The Nigerian flag is a vertical bi-colour tri-band of green, white and green. The two green stripes represent Nigeria’s natural wealth, while the white band represents peace. It was designed by the late Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi in 1959 and was officially adopted on October 1, 1960.
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The NOA boss said that “the donation of N30 million to the family of 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.”
One of the legendary patriot’s children, Akinwunmi Akinkunmi, expressed gratitude to the president and the NOA director general, describing the gesture as a laudable and commendable act that would serve as a morale booster for the family.
When Mr. Akinwummi died, a lawyer, Justice Ojienoh, applauded the nation for honouring the legend, but stated it should have been done much earlier.
He advised the country to celebrate its heroes while they are still alive, and not after their death. He called for the federal government to set a day to honour the late flag designer annually.
The NOA boss was accompanied on the visit by some staff of the Oyo State directorate.
