Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, the visionary creator behind Nigeria’s iconic flag design, has passed away. The nation mourns the loss of this remarkable individual, who breathed life into a symbol that represents the nation’s identity. Akinkunmi, aged 87, departed this world in the early hours of Tuesday following a brief illness.
The news of his passing was shared by one of his children through a heartfelt Facebook post.
The emotional tribute read, “Life is indeed transient; I can say boldly that you lived a life with a landmark.
“Continue to rest, my father! Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi (O.F.R.): A great man has gone.”
Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi’s historic flag design was proudly raised on the monumental day of Nigeria’s independence, October 1, 1960, symbolizing the nation’s transition from British colonial rule to sovereign statehood.
Hailing from Abeokuta in Ogun State, Akinkunmi was born on May 10, 1936. Despite his roots, he spent his life in Ibadan. His academic journey led him through Baptist Day Secondary School and Ibadan Grammar School, where he received his primary and secondary education respectively.
Commencing his career as a civil servant at the Secretariat of Ibadan, Akinkunmi later ventured abroad to pursue studies in Agricultural Engineering at Norway Technical College.
He was honoured with the MON (Member of the Order of the Niger) conferred upon him by President Goodluck Jonathan.
