Taiwo Akinkunmi, the creator of the Nigerian flag, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87.
Taiwo Akinkunmi was the talented designer behind the Nigerian flag, a symbol that holds immense significance for the country’s identity. Born on May 10, 1936, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, he spent most of his life in Ibadan, Oyo State. After completing his primary education at Baptist Day Secondary School and his secondary education at Ibadan Grammar School, he embarked on a career as a civil servant at the Secretariat in Ibadan.
Akinkunmi’s journey took a transformative turn when he pursued further education abroad, studying Agricultural Engineering at Norway Technical College. It was during this time that he noticed an advertisement in a national newspaper inviting designs for Nigeria’s upcoming national flag, which was to be unveiled upon the nation’s independence from British colonial rule.
Seizing the opportunity, Akinkunmi submitted his unique design, which incorporated green and white elements. His design stood out from the approximately 2,000 entries received. The combination of green and white in his design was not only visually striking but also symbolically meaningful. The green color represents Nigeria’s lush vegetation and its agricultural wealth, while the white color symbolizes peace and unity.
Impressively, Akinkunmi’s design was chosen as the winning entry, and his flag was officially adopted as Nigeria’s national flag. The flag was hoisted for the first time on October 1, 1960, during Nigeria’s Independence Day celebration.
Don’t miss out on: BREAKING!; Top Nigerian Pastor, Taiwo Odukoya Is Dead
Throughout his life, Taiwo Akinkunmi remained a figure of pride for Nigerians, celebrated for his contribution to the nation’s identity and independence. He continued to reside in Ibadan, where he passed away on a Wednesday morning after a brief illness.
His son, Akinkunmi Samuel, shared the news of his father’s demise through a post on his Facebook page.
“Life is indeed transient; I can say boldly you live a life with a landmark. Continue to rest on, my father! Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi (O.F.R) Great Man has gone,” Samuel’s announced.
His legacy lives on through the enduring symbol of unity, peace, and prosperity that he created—the Nigerian flag.