Family of Nigeria’s flag designer holds burial after year-long wait for state funeral

The family of Taiwo Akinkunmi, the designer of the Nigerian national flag, has proceeded with his burial after a year-long wait for a promised state funeral that never materialized. Akinkunmi passed away on September 4, 2023, at the age of 87.

Despite initial assurances from the Federal Government, the family received no further communication or arrangements for a state funeral. With the body stored at a morgue at a cost of N2,000 per day, the Oyo State Government stepped in to fund the burial rites.

The three-day burial ceremony, which began on September 4 and concluded on September 6, 2024, in Ibadan, was attended by dignitaries and family members. While the family appreciates the support from the Oyo State Government and other individuals, they remain hopeful that the Federal Government will fulfill its promises.

Akinkunmi’s son, Akinwumi, expressed disappointment that the government recognized his father’s contributions 55 years after designing the national flag. He fears that further delay will tarnish his father’s memory.

Born on May 10, 1936, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Akinkunmi is renowned for designing the Nigerian flag. His legacy deserves recognition, and his family awaits the government’s fulfillment of its promises.