Oyo state government has stated that the contribution of the designer of the Nigerian green and white flag, Late Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, were immense and immeasurable, leaving an enduring legacy of a symbol of national identity for all Nigerians and generations to come.
The state government subsequently, called on the federal government of Nigeria to immortalize the deceased for his role in the building of the Nigerian nation as member of the global community, and also in sustaining his enduring legacy.
Born on May 10, 1936, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Pa Akinkunmi was renowned for designing the Nigerian national flag for which he received a £100 (one hundred pounds) award after his design was selected in 1958 ahead of Nigeria’s independence.
Speaking at the final farewell service held on Friday September 6, at the main bowl of Obafemi Awolowo stadium, the Acting Governor of Oyo state, Barrister Bayo Lawal, described Late Pa Akinkunmi as a man who embodied patriotism, resilience, and a Nigerian worthy of emulation.
The ceremony, attended by top state government functionaries, members of the state advisory Council, family, friends and citizens, was characterized by emotional tributes and calls for national recognition.
His design of the green and white flag, a symbol of unity and vast natural resources, has been a cherished national emblem since it was first hoisted in 1960 when Nigeria officially gained its independence from her colonializer. During the service, Acting Governor Bayo Lawal praised Pa Akinkunmi’s dedication and creative brilliance.
The acting Governor also stated that Pa Akinkunmi’s legacy is one that embodies the spirit of Nigeria adding that his design was not just a flag but a beacon of Nigeria’s values, aspirations, and a reflection of how creative brilliance can be used for nation building.
“I don’t have any written speech to make but let me say clearly, that Pa Akinkunmi has contributed immensely to the Nigerian nation. This service is not a limited one, it’s not encapsulated, it’s not restricted, it’s a national service and we must take it as such.
“Pa Akinkunmi was a pride not only to us that are here but to Nigeria, to the world at large because this national flag is flown wherever Nigeria has embassies across the world. So, it is an enduring legacy, that at the age of 23, Pa Akinkunmi submitted his design of the national flag which was adopted by the Nigerian nation.
“Now I want to throw a challenge to the federal government of Nigeria, this burial ceremony should not only be left in the hands of the family and the hands of Oyo state government. It’s indeed a project that the federal government should be well involved in and perhaps the Director, National Orientation Agency is here, he would convey our message to the federal government.
“It’s never late, we have a lot to do in immortalizing Pa Akinkunmi, and the federal government should come handy in ensuring that his legacy is duly recognized and immortalized.” Barrister Lawal said.
Earlier in his tribute, the Chairman, Oyo State Advisory Council, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde (SAN), said Pa Akinkunmi left an indelible mark in the sands of history adding that he was not just a visionary and patriotic Nigerian but a national hero whose legacy transcends generations noting that he would forever be missed.
Pastor Femi Omowumi of the Gospel of Faith Ministry International (GOFAMINT), in his sermon earlier lauded Pa Akinkunmi for leaving a legacy of a good name for his family. While urging the family to sustain the legacy left behind by their patriarch, the clergy noted that despite not holding any political office in his lifetime, his legacy is greater than that of those holding public office, and charged Nigerians on the need to be patriotic regardless of the challenges facing the country.
Highlights of the event was the paying of last respect to the deceased by the Acting Governor and other dignitaries present as well as panegyric rendition of of his Owu, Abeokuta ancestry by a cultural troupe.
Others present at the event are members of the state executive Council, representatives of the leadership of GOFAMINT, and others.