Nigeria Flag Designer Taiwo Akinkunmi Buried

Pa Taiwo Michael Akinkunmi, the designer of Nigeria’s national flag, was finally laid to rest in Ibadan, Oyo State, on September 6, 2024, after a year-long wait for a state funeral that never materialized from the federal government. Akinkunmi passed away on August 29, 2023, at the age of 87. The burial was supported financially by the Oyo State Government, led by Governor Seyi Makinde, after the federal government failed to fulfill its promise of a state funeral. This decision came after the family could no longer bear the financial burden of morgue storage fees, which amounted to N2,000 daily.

The burial ceremony was relatively modest, attended by representatives from the Oyo State Government, family members, students from Akinkunmi’s alma mater, and members of the Gospel Faith Mission International (GOFAMINT). Speaking at the event, Akinkunmi’s son, Akinwumi Akinkunmi, expressed the family’s disappointment over the unfulfilled promises but found solace in their father’s legacy of contributing to Nigeria without seeking personal glory.

The acting governor of Oyo State, Bayo Lawal, highlighted the national significance of Akinkunmi’s contribution, suggesting that his burial should have been a federal affair. Remarks also emphasized the symbolism of the flag’s colors, with green representing agricultural wealth and white symbolizing peace and unity, urging leaders to remember these ideals in governance.

This event underscores a broader discussion on how national figures are remembered and honored in Nigeria, with many expressing through various platforms like X (formerly Twitter) their disappointment over the lack of recognition from the federal government for such a significant historical figure.