Project ONE Nigerian held a historical tribute to commemorate the life and work of Taiwo Akinkunmi, the esteemed designer of Nigeria’s flag In Abuja.
The event held at the Unity fountain, Abuja, with the campaign “IAMANIGERIAN” brought together prominent figures, government officials, artists, and Nigerians from all walks of life to honor Akinkunmi’s contributions to the nation’s cultural heritage.
The historical tribute according to Bisayo Busari-Akinnadeju, the founder of Project ONE Nigeria served as an opportunity to reflect on the significance of Akinkunmi’s flag design and its enduring impact on Nigeria’s national identity.
Her statement reads “In 1959, the young Akinkunmi submitted his design for the national flag of Nigeria, which was eventually chosen out of 2,000 entries. His design was a simple yet powerful representation of Nigeria’s aspirations and values. The green vertical stripes symbolize Nigeria’s agricultural wealth, while the white stripe represents peace. The central green-white-green vertical stripes represent Nigeria’s progressive nature”.
Guest speakers led by the Director General of National Orientation Agency, Dr Garba Abari, passionately recounted anecdotes about the flag and its symbolism, emphasizing its role in fostering unity and pride among Nigerians.