Idris Lauds Nigeria’s Flag Designer, Akinkunmi, as National Icon

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has described the late  Taiwo Akinkunmi as an iconic individual who designed one of the most important symbols of Nigeria’s collective existence as a country.

He made the remarks yesterday while on a condolence visit to the family of  Akinkunmi, at his Elebu, Ibadan residence.

Idris said the visit was at the behest of President Bola Tinubu, who he  assured the family shares in the pain caused by the death of the icon. He added that the late Akinkunmi represented the unity and oneness of the country through the legacy he left behind.

“Mr. President has asked that we come to commiserate with the family and the state and also to tell them that he shares with them in this grief, along with the federal government, throughout this period,” he said. He assured that the requests of the family at this time would be looked into.

Earlier, Idris paid a courtesy visit to Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde at the Governor’s Office, Agodi Ibadan.

 Represented by the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, Makinde said that even though the national anthem had been changed twice, the national flag has remained the same owing to the depth of message and meaning it preaches.

“He must have had in mind a united country that would always be one. We must appreciate Akinkunmi for his rich knowledge and deep insight in that he saw agriculture as a key item that will always be relevant, especially now in the face of dwindling oil prices globally.

“ Again, the white colour on the flag symbolises the peace and unity of the nation. The unity and togetherness of the nation remain key to us all,” said the deputy governor.

He expressed appreciation to the president, on behalf of the Akinkunmi family and the entire state, for sending the high-powered delegation to condole with the state, saying the people of Oyo State were ready to cooperate with the federal government on the unity of the country.