The designer of generally accepted flag of Nigeria, PA Taiwo Akinkunmi, has passed away today 30th of August 2023 at the age of 84.
His son, Akinkunmi Akinwumi Samuel, shared the news of his father’s passing on Facebook, acknowledging the impactful life he lived.
Pa Akinwumi, the Icon, originally from Owu in Abeokuta, Ogun state, was born on May 10, 1936.
He received his primary education at Baptist Day Secondary School, Ibadan, and later attended Ibadan Grammar School for his secondary education.
However, after serving as a Civil Servant at the Secretariat in Ibadan, he pursued further studies in Agricultural Engineering at Norway Technical College.
In 1958, during his time abroad, Akinkunmi came across a national advertisement inviting design submissions for the Nigerian national flag, as the country approached its Independence from British rule. Inspired, he crafted his own design and emerged as the winner among nearly 2000 entries.
The original flag design showcased a white band flanked by two green bands, with a red sun featuring rays on the white band. The sun was eventually omitted by the overseeing committee, resulting in the flag’s current design.
Meanwhile, Akinkunmi’s design stood out due to its symbolism—the green bands symbolizing the nation’s lush forests and natural wealth, while the white band denoted peace.
On October 1, 1960, Nigeria’s Independence Day, the flag was officially raised, replacing the British Union Jack.
Acknowledging his contribution, the government awarded Akinkunmi 100 pounds and he later received the MON (Member of the Order of the Niger) Award from President Goodluck Jonathan.
