Thursday 1 October 2015

What Nigerian Flag Designer Wishes For Nigeria At 55

As Nigeria celebrates its 55th independence anniversary today, October 1, one name that would keep resonating in the minds of Nigerians is Taiwo Akinkunmi, the man who designed the Nigerian flag.

Few months ago, it was rumored that the octogenarian had passed on. went on a fact finding mission to ascertain the true state of the Nigerian forgotten hero and can authoritatively report that Taiwo Akinkunmi is still alive.
Locating his historical residence (Ibadan, Oyo state) elegantly painted in green and white was not an easy task due to the dilapidated state of the access road.
When our correspondent got to his house, the first point of contact was his first son, Akinwumi Akinkumi, who confirmed his father is alive though ill.
Akinwumi attributed his father’s illness to old age contrary to the impression that Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi was down with stroke.
Pa Akinkunmi, who was sited on a wine coloured couch exchanged warm pleasantries with our correspondent.
When asked to recall his experience when he received the cash prize of 100 pounds for designing the Nigerian flag in 1958, Akinkunmi politely declined stating that as much as he would love to speak, he is deterred by his health condition.
Though it was a short conversation, the octogenarian eventually mustered strength to interact with by stating his wishes for Nigerians at 55.
Speaking exclusively with Pa Akinkunmi as he is fondly called stated his wishes for Nigeria at 55.
“I wish Nigerians happy independence. God bless Nigeria. My wish for Nigeria is for it to be great and it is my prayer that Nigerian will continue to witness prosperity, peace and progress.”

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