Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi (OFR), the visionary mind behind Nigeria’s flag design, has passed away at the age of 86. He departed in the early hours of Tuesday following a brief illness, as confirmed through an announcement shared on the Facebook account of one of his children.
Reflecting on his remarkable journey, one of his children wrote, “Life’s fleeting nature is evident, yet my father’s legacy stands tall. Rest peacefully, Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi (O.F.R.): An extraordinary soul has bid us farewell.”
Hailing from Abeokuta, Ogun State, Pa Akinwumi was born on May 10, 1936, and resided in Ibadan until his recent passing. His educational path led him through Baptist Day Secondary School and Ibadan Grammar School in Ibadan, where he laid the foundation for his future.
Commencing his professional life as a Civil Servant at the Ibadan Secretariat, Pa Akinkunmi’s ambitions eventually took him abroad, where he pursued studies in Agricultural Engineering at Norway Technical College.
In 1958, while overseas, fate intervened when Akinkunmi discovered an advertisement in a national newspaper soliciting designs for Nigeria’s national flag, timed to coincide with the country’s impending Independence from British rule. Among approximately 2,000 submissions, his design emerged as the victor.
Originally featuring a white central stripe flanked by vibrant green bands, with a red sun and its rays gracing the white segment, his design underwent revisions by the overseeing committee, eventually resulting in the flag’s current form.
Akinkunmi’s masterpiece earned its selection due to its profound symbolism—the verdant green bands symbolizing Nigeria’s lush forests and abundant natural resources, while the pristine white center representing peace.
On the momentous day of Independence (October 1, 1960), the Nigerian flag, bearing Akinkunmi’s thoughtful design, replaced the British Union Jack, marking a pivotal juncture in the nation’s history.
Upon the recognition of his achievement, the government awarded Akinkunmi a sum of 100 pounds. His contributions were further acknowledged when he received the MON (Member of the Order of the Niger) Award from President Goodluck Jonathan, a testament to his enduring impact on Nigeria’s identity and heritage.