The family of Taiwo Michael Akinkunmi “Mr Flag Man”, the designer of Nigeria’s national flag, has decided to move forward with his burial after waiting in vain for a promised state funeral.
Akinkunmi, affectionately known as “Mr. Flag Man,” passed away a year ago at the age of 87. Despite his significant contribution to Nigeria’s identity, the family has been left to make arrangements for his burial, which will take place in Oyo state, where he resided.
Akinkunmi’s son, Akinwumi, expressed disappointment that the federal government failed to fulfill its promise of a state funeral, leaving them to pay for the morgue fees. However, the Oyo state government has stepped in to fund the burial rites, ensuring that Akinkunmi receives a befitting sendoff.
Akinkunmi’s journey to designing the national flag began when he entered a competition in 1960, ahead of Nigeria’s independence from the UK. His simple yet meaningful design, featuring equal green-white-green vertical stripes, was chosen from among 3,000 submissions. The green represented Nigeria’s rich agricultural heritage, while the white symbolized peace and unity.
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Despite his achievement, Akinkunmi lived a humble life, and his contribution to the country went largely unrecognized until Nigeria’s 50th independence anniversary. He was later awarded the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), one of Nigeria’s highest honors, in 2014.
The family’s decision to proceed with the burial comes after months of waiting for the federal government to fulfill its promise. Akinwumi stated that his father would not have wanted his name tarnished by further delays. The burial will serve as an opportunity to honor Akinkunmi’s legacy and remember his contribution to Nigeria’s identity.
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