The flag of Nigeria consists of three vertical stripes: two green stripes on the outer edges and a white stripe in the middle. Green represents the country's rich natural resources, especially agriculture, and its lush vegetation. White symbolizes peace and unity among the diverse ethnic groups in the country. The flag was designed in 1959 by a Nigerian student, Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, and was officially adopted on October 1, 1960, when Nigeria gained independence from the United Kingdom.