The passing of Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, the creator of Nigeria’s national flag, is being mourned by the Federal Government of Nigeria. He peacefully departed at 84 years of age in his family residence in Ibadan following a short illness.
In a statement released on Wednesday and signed the Minister of Information and National Orientation, by Mohammed Idris, deep sadness was expressed regarding the passing of Akinkunmi.
He was recognized as an iconic figure whose impact on national unity will always be remembered.
Idris said “I am particularly saddened over the news of the demise of Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, a national icon, whose contribution to national unity will remain indelible.”
Idris noted that Akinkunmi’s demise occurred during a period when Nigeria was actively transforming itself for peace, progress, and lasting national harmony.
“I am confident that Pa Akinkunmi will continue to live in the minds of Nigerians for generations to come,” he added.
He highlighted that the National Flag, a cherished symbol of the nation, stands as a legacy through which Pa Akinwunmi has left an indelible mark in the pages of Nigerian history.
“The National Flag, one of our revered national symbols is an asset for which Pa Akinwunmi has etched his name in the annals of Nigerian history.
“I, therefore, wish to use this opportunity to express my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, praying that God will grant them the fortitude to bear this great loss,” he added.
Born on May 10, 1936, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Akinwumi hailed from Abeokuta, Ogun State, and spent his life in Ibadan until his passing.
For his primary education, he attended Baptist Day Secondary School, Ibadan, followed by Ibadan Grammar School, Ibadan, where he pursued his secondary education.
Embarking on his professional journey, he commenced his career as a civil servant at the Ibadan Secretariat before venturing overseas to pursue studies in Agricultural Engineering at Norway Technical College.
During his time abroad in 1958, Akinkunmi chanced upon an advertisement in a national newspaper calling for design submissions for the Nigerian national flag, as Nigeria was on the brink of gaining independence from British rule.
His design was chosen due to its creativity and significance, with the green bands symbolizing the nation’s lush forests and abundant natural resources, while the white band represented peace.
Instead of the British Union Jack, the flag he designed was proudly raised on Independence Day (October 1, 1960), marking Nigeria’s official freedom.
For his winning design, Akinkunmi received a government award of 100 pounds in recognition.
Furthermore, President Goodluck Jonathan honored him with the MON (Member of the Order of the Niger) Award.