Oyo State, Nigeria – The story of Taiwo Michael Akinkunmi, the man behind Nigeria’s national flag, is one of creativity, patriotism, and enduring legacy. Known affectionately as “Mr. Flag Man,” Akinkunmi’s design has become a symbol of national pride and unity. Despite his passing a year ago, his contributions continue to resonate deeply within the hearts of Nigerians.
The Birth of a National Symbol
In 1959, as Nigeria prepared for its independence from British colonial rule, a national competition was announced to design a new flag. Taiwo Michael Akinkunmi, then a 23-year-old student at Norwood Technical College in London, submitted a simple yet profound design: a green and white flag. The green stripes represented Nigeria’s rich agricultural heritage, while the white stripe symbolized peace and unity.
Akinkunmi’s design was selected from nearly 2,000 entries, and on October 1, 1960, the flag was hoisted for the first time, marking Nigeria’s independence. This momentous occasion cemented Akinkunmi’s place in history as the creator of one of the most recognizable symbols of Nigerian identity.
A Life of Service and Recognition
Following his success, Akinkunmi returned to Nigeria, where he continued to serve his country in various capacities. He worked as a civil servant in the Ministry of Agriculture and later in the Ministry of Works. Despite his significant contribution to the nation, Akinkunmi lived a modest life, often struggling with health and financial challenges in his later years.
In recognition of his contributions, the Nigerian government awarded Akinkunmi the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 2014. Additionally, he received a lifetime salary from the government, a gesture aimed at honoring his enduring legacy.
The Final Farewell
Akinkunmi passed away on August 29, 2023, at the age of 86. His death was met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the nation. Many Nigerians called for a state funeral to honor the man who gave the country its flag. However, despite promises from the government, the state funeral has yet to materialize.
Frustrated by the delays, Akinkunmi’s family has decided to proceed with his burial in his hometown of Ibadan, Oyo State. The family expressed their disappointment but emphasized their desire to give Akinkunmi a dignified farewell.
“We had hoped for a state funeral to honor my father’s contributions to Nigeria,” said Akinkunmi’s son, Michael. “But we cannot wait indefinitely. We will lay him to rest in Oyo State, where he was born and where he spent his final years.”
A Nation Reflects
As Nigeria reflects on Akinkunmi’s legacy, many are reminded of the importance of recognizing and honoring those who have contributed to the nation’s identity and progress. Akinkunmi’s story is a testament to the power of creativity and patriotism. His flag design continues to inspire generations of Nigerians, serving as a reminder of the country’s rich history and the enduring spirit of its people.
In the words of President Muhammadu Buhari, “Taiwo Akinkunmi’s legacy will forever be etched in the annals of Nigerian history. His flag design is not just a symbol of our nation; it is a symbol of our unity, our resilience, and our hope for a better future.”
As the nation bids farewell to “Mr. Flag Man,” his story serves as a poignant reminder of the impact one individual can have on a nation’s identity. Taiwo Michael Akinkunmi may be gone, but his legacy will continue to fly high, just like the flag he so proudly designed.
