A somber atmosphere engulfs Nigeria as Pa. Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, the visionary behind the country's national flag, passes away at the age of 87.
Reports indicate that Akinkunmi peacefully left this world in the early hours of Tuesday, August 29, after a brief illness.
Announcing his passing on Facebook, one of his children shared, "Life is indeed transient; I can confidently affirm that he lived a life of significance. Rest in peace, my father! Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi (O.F.R.): A Great Man has departed."
Born on May 10, 1936, the late Pa Akinwunmi attended Baptist Day Secondary School, Ibadan, for his primary education, and Ibadan Grammar School, Ibadan, for his secondary education. Beginning his career as a civil servant at the Secretariat of Ibadan, he later pursued further studies in Agricultural Engineering at Norway Technical College.
In 1958, during his time abroad, Akinkunmi chanced upon a newspaper advertisement inviting submissions for the design of Nigeria's national flag, coinciding with the country's impending independence from British rule. His submission was deemed the finest among nearly 2,000 entries.
Originally featuring a white band between two green ones, with a red sun surrounded by rays on the white band, the design underwent changes by the overseeing committee, resulting in the present design without the sun.
Akinkunmi's design was chosen for its brilliance and symbolism (the green bands represent the nation's lush forests and natural wealth, while the white band symbolizes peace). The flag was officially raised on Independence Day, October 1, 1960, replacing the British Union Jack.
Upon the selection of his design, Akinkunmi received a government award of 100 pounds. He was also honored with the MON (Member of the Order of the Niger) Award by President Goodluck Jonathan.
May his soul rest in peace, Amen.