Making a mark in one’s lifetime is the aspiration of several individuals. For Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, he left a lasting legacy that the old and young generation acknowledges. Also, he has made a mark that generations to come in Nigeria will remember for history purpose and other reasons. He passed away on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at the age of 87. Let’s take a look at some facts about him.
Background
He was born on May 10, 1936, and hailed from Abeokuta, Ogun State. He is an alumnus of Baptist Day Secondary School and Ibadan Grammar School. Both schools are in Ibadan, Oyo State. Also, he is a graduate of Engineering at Norwood Technical College, London.
Career
He worked as a Civil Servant at the Secretariat of Ibadan, Oyo State, until 1994.
He designed the national flag
Akinkunmi saw an advertisement in a national newspaper calling for the submission of designs for the Nigerian national flag in view of its independence from British rule.
His entry beat that of others, which were about 2,000 entries. The first design of the flag had a white band with two green ones by the side. Also, the white band had a red sun with steaming rays. There was an adjustment on the design which produced the current one.
Akinkunmi’s design was profound and conveyed a message the people can relate with. While green stands for the rich natural resources and the wealth of the nation, white connotes peace and unity.
Rewards and recognition
After Akinkunmi’s design was selected, he was awarded with 100 pounds for his work. The flag was officially hoisted on October 1, 1960. During the tenure of former president, Goodluck Jonathan, he was also given a national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 2014.
Appreciation
For his historical contribution to the nation, he appeared on the special edition of the popular TV show, ‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire’ in 2008. He was given two million naira for his appearance which he used to complete the building he lived in before his passing.
Tinubu pays tribute
In a statement by President Bola Tinubu’s spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, on Wednesday, he said that Akinkunmi dedicated his life to the service of the nation, sharing knowledge with old and young, and inspiring many to think and act patriotically.
He continued, “The President affirms that the green and white flag is a legacy that has consistently reflected the fruitfulness, resilience, and harmony enjoyed by the nation. Also, it reflects the boldness and uniqueness with which Nigerians characteristically reach for and achieve success around the world.
“President Tinubu believes Pa Akinkunmi lived and worked for the greatness of the country, and rests eternally with a place of honour in Nigeria’s history.”
May his soul rest in peace.
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