Colonel Shittu A. Alao: 4th Chief of the Nigerian Air Force
Colonel Shittu A. Alao, a remarkable figure in Nigeria\'s military history, served as the fourth Chief of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and was the second Nigerian Army officer to lead the Air Force. Born in Dorowa Babuje, Plateau State in October 1937, Colonel Alao\'s roots traced back to Masifa, Ogbomoso, in present-day Oyo State. His mother was from Shendam, Plateau State.

Early Life and Education
Colonel Alao began his education at First Baptist Day School, Jos, before moving on to the Provincial Secondary School, Kuru, where he graduated in 1954. After secondary school, he enlisted in the Nigerian Army and joined the 13th Course at the Regular Officers Special Training School in Accra, Ghana.

Career in the Air Force
In the early 1960s, Nigeria sought to transition the NAF from German control to indigenous leadership. As part of this initiative, four Army officers, including Colonel Alao, were seconded to the Air Force. In 1963, he was sent to Germany for a one-year indoctrination program covering various aspects of air force operations. On his return, he served as the Senior Air Operations Officer at NAF headquarters.

Colonel Alao assumed command of the NAF on 5 August 1967, succeeding Brigadier George T. Kurubo. His tenure coincided with the Nigerian Civil War, a period fraught with challenges. Despite the NAF\'s lack of preparation for the conflict, he inspired patriotism among his personnel and personally led bombing missions, showcasing exceptional bravery and leadership.

Tragic Death
Colonel Alao tragically lost his life in the line of duty while piloting a L-29 aircraft during a solo flight. Encountering adverse weather conditions and fuel exhaustion, he attempted an emergency landing but collided with a tree, resulting in his death.

Legacy
Colonel Alao\'s dedication to his role and his significant contributions to the development of the Nigerian Air Force left a lasting legacy. As one of the few officers from his group to qualify as a pilot, his leadership during the NAF\'s formative years remains a testament to his courage and commitment.

Source
Nigerian Air Force archives
The Nigeria-Biafra War Letters by Brigadier Benjamin Adekunle
Adeyinka Makinde’s historical insights

Adesakin