Five interesting facts about Nigeria’s flag you may not know

It’s Nigeria’s Independence Day; a perfect day to go back in time and ruminate on things that truly make us special and stand as testament to the struggle, freedom, history and our uniqueness. The Nigeria’s flag is not only a symbol of unity and peace but of hope and prosperity. Beyond this, there are lesser-known facts about the Nigerian flag you should know. See all here:

The flag has been flown on the moon

Nigeria’s flag has been flown on the moon! In 1978, the Nigerian flag was carried to the moon by astronaut Charles Duke during the Apollo 17 mission. This historic feat was a source of great pride for Nigerians, showcasing the country’s achievements on the global stage. The Nigerian flag, once a symbol of independence and unity, became a testament to the nation’s ambition and the limitless possibilities of human exploration.

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The flag had a red sun at the centre

The original design also included a red quarter sun on the white stripe as a symbol of divine protection and guidance, but this was omitted by the committee. The new national flag became official on independence day, October 1, 1960. The flag was carefully chosen to accommodate our diversity, therefore, it had to be simple and straightforward. A more complex design might have explicitly honoured some ethnic and religious groups while excluding others.

3. The flag was designed by a student

The design of Nigeria’s flag was the brainchild of a young student (now a national persona) named Taiwo Akinkunmi. The work toward independence led to the establishment of a national planning committee, which in 1958 called for a competition to select a national flag. Almost 3,000 designs were submitted, many of great complexity. The winning design was by Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi. He was a Nigerian student in London. His creation has become a national symbol, representing the hopes and aspirations of generations of Nigerians.

4. The flag’s aspect ratio is 2:3

The Nigerian flag has a specific aspect ratio of 2:3, meaning that the length is 2/3 times the width. This ratio ensures that the flag is displayed correctly and maintains its intended proportions.

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5. The flag has a federal government usage code

There is a Federal Government Usage Code that outlines the proper use and display of the Nigerian flag. This code also ensures that the flag is treated with respect and dignity, and that it is not used inappropriately or for commercial purposes.