Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, fondly known as Mr. Flag Man, was a distinguished Nigerian civil servant renowned for designing Nigeria’s national flag. Born on May 10, 1936, in Ibadan, Oyo State, he left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. Let’s delve into the life and achievements of this remarkable figure.
Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi Early Life and Education:
Hailing from Ibadan and of Yoruba descent, Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi was born as the elder twin. His formative years were spent under his father’s guardianship until the age of 8, when he moved to the Northern region of Nigeria. It was here that he began his educational journey. After his father’s retirement, he returned to the Western region and enrolled at Baptist Day School, Idi-Ikan, in Ibadan. His primary education concluded at Baptist Day School Idi-kan in 1949, paving the way for his enrollment at Ibadan Grammar School (IGS) in 1950, where he experienced a robust and enriching educational tenure.
Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi Career:
In 1955, Akinkunmi completed his studies at Ibadan Grammar School and embarked on a role as an agriculturist at the Western Region Secretariat in Ibadan, marking the beginning of his civil service career. After several years of dedicated service, he gained admission to Norwood Technical College in London, where he pursued studies in electrical engineering. It was during this time abroad that he conceived the design for the Nigerian Flag.
Upon his return to Nigeria in 1963, he resumed his position within the agricultural department at the secretariat in Ibadan. His tenure as a civil servant extended until 1994, during which he rose to the role of Assistant Superintendent of Agriculture. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was honored with the title of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) and appointed an honorary life presidential adviser on September 29, 1994.
Designing The Nigerian Flag:
Akinkunmi’s journey to designing the Nigerian flag began when he came across a competition while perusing a library. He recalled, “I gathered information about the criteria for designing a flag that would befit a country on the brink of independence. After engaging in the competition, my design emerged as the victor in the year 1958.” In 2021, Akinkunmi unveiled an impressive accomplishment—the world’s largest national flag—in the city of Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi Personal Life and Legacy:
Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi was a family man, blessed with children. Tragically, he passed away on August 29, 2023, at the age of 87, after a brief period of illness. His legacy lives on through the enduring symbol of Nigeria’s flag, a testament to his enduring contribution to the nation.
FAQs:
- What is Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi’s full name?
- Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, OFR.
- When was Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi born?
- He was born on May 10, 1936.
- What is Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi’s net worth?
- His estimated net worth was approximately $500,000.
