What is the name of the person who created the Nigerian flag?

The Nigerian Flag

The Nigerian flag is a symbol of the country’s independence and sovereignty. It features two equal horizontal bands of green and white, with a vertical band of green at the hoist side. In the center of the white band is a green circle, which contains a vertical white crescent moon and a five-pointed white star.

The Nigerian flag was first raised on October 1, 1960, to mark the country’s independence from British colonial rule. Since then, it has become an important national symbol, representing the country’s diverse cultural heritage, natural resources, and aspirations for the future.

The Design of the Nigerian Flag

The design of the Nigerian flag was inspired by the country’s coat of arms, which features a black shield with two white wavy bands, a green and white vertical band, and two supporting horses or chargers. The flag’s green and white colors were adopted from the coat of arms, while the central green circle and white crescent moon and star were added to give the flag a distinctive and symbolic look.

The Green and White Colors

Green and white were chosen as the colors of the Nigerian flag because they represent Nigeria’s natural resources and unity, respectively. Green symbolizes the country’s abundant vegetation, forests, and agricultural wealth, while white stands for peace, purity, and national unity.

The Symbolism Behind the Nigerian Flag

The Nigerian flag is rich in symbolism and meaning. The green color represents Nigeria’s agricultural heritage and natural resources, as well as its lush forests and abundant wildlife. The white color symbolizes peace, unity, and purity, and reflects Nigeria’s aspirations for a harmonious and prosperous society. The central green circle represents Nigeria’s boundless wealth and resources, while the white crescent moon and star symbolize peace and progress.

The Creator of the Nigerian Flag

The Nigerian flag was designed by a Nigerian artist and civil servant named Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi. He was born on May 10, 1936, in Ibadan, Nigeria, and grew up in the town of Awe in present-day Oyo State.

Who Was Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi?

Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi was a renowned Nigerian artist and civil servant who worked for the Nigerian government for over three decades. He was trained as an artist at the famous Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology in Zaria (now Ahmadu Bello University) and later worked as a teacher and civil servant.

The Making of the Nigerian Flag

In 1959, the Nigerian government announced a competition to design a new national flag. Akinkunmi, who was working as an assistant architect at the time, submitted his design, which was eventually selected from over 2,000 entries. He spent several months refining his design and testing different color combinations before settling on the final version.

Unveiling and Adoption of the Flag

The Nigerian flag was first raised on October 1, 1960, during a ceremony to mark the country’s independence from British colonial rule. It was unveiled by Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, who praised the flag’s design and symbolism.

Legacy of Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi

Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi’s contribution to Nigerian history and culture cannot be overstated. His design of the Nigerian flag has become an enduring symbol of the country’s sovereignty and aspirations for a better future. Despite his immense contribution, he lived a quiet and humble life and was only recognized by the Nigerian government in 2014, when he was awarded the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) national honor.

Conclusion: Remembering the Nigerian Flag’s Creator

Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi’s legacy as the creator of the Nigerian flag will continue to inspire generations of Nigerians and Africans. His contribution to Nigerian art and culture will always be remembered and celebrated. As Nigeria continues to grow and evolve, the Nigerian flag will remain a symbol of the country’s rich heritage, diversity, and potential for the future.