It is with great sadness to announce the passing of the designer of the Nigerian flag, Pa. Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, at the age of 87.
The Akinkunmi family confirmed that he passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, August 29, after a short illness.
His demise was announced by one of his children on Facebook, paying tribute to his remarkable life.
“Life is indeed transient; I can say boldly that you live a life with a landmark. Continue to rest, my father! Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi (O.F.R.): Great Man has gone.”
Born on May 10, 1936, the late Pa Akinwunmi attended Baptist Day Secondary School, Ibadan, and Ibadan Grammar School for his education. After starting his career as a Civil Servant, he later pursued studies in Agricultural Engineering at Norway Technical College.
During his time abroad in 1958, Akinkunmi came across an advertisement calling for flag designs for Nigeria’s upcoming Independence. His entry was chosen as the best from approximately 2,000 submissions.
The original flag design featured a white band flanked by two green ones and a red sun with streaming rays on the white band. The sun was later removed by the overseeing committee to create the present design.
Akinkunmi’s design was selected for its creativity and depth, symbolizing the country’s forests and natural wealth (green bands) and peace (white band). The flag was officially hoisted on Independence Day, October 1, 1960, replacing the British Union Jack.
Upon the selection of his design, Akinkunmi was awarded 100 pounds by the government and has received the MON (Member of the Order of the Niger) Award by President Goodluck Jonathan.
May his soul rest in peace, Amen.
