August 30 (THEWILL) – President Bola Tinubu has conveyed his sympathy to the family of Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, who designed the national flag in 1958, following his passing into glory at the age of 87.
The President, in a statement issued on Wednesday, by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, condoled with friends and associates of the retired civil servant, who dedicated his life to the service of the nation, sharing knowledge and experience with old and young, and inspiring many to think and act patriotically.
Noting that the Green and White flag is a legacy that has consistently reflected the fruitfulness, resilience, and harmony enjoyed by the nation, President Tinubu said it represented the boldness and uniqueness with which Nigerians characteristically reach for and achieve success around the world.
The President believed Pa Akinkunmi lived and worked for the greatness of the country, with a generational legacy and a place of honour in Nigeria.
Born Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi in Ibadan, he lived with his father until he was eight years old before he relocated to the Northern part of Nigeria.
Pa. Taiwo Michael Akinkunmi began his early education in the North and after his father’s retirement, he came down to the West and was re-enrolled at Baptist Day School, Idi-Ikan in Ibadan.
He was a Nigerian civil servant who was best known for designing Nigeria’s national flag.
He was commonly referred to as Mr Flag Man.
