The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has explained the Federal Government’s decision to appoint Fuji music legend, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (popularly known as KWAM 1), as an ambassador for proper airport security protocols.
The move followed public criticism over recent incidents of unruly conduct at Nigerian airports, including KWAM 1’s confrontation with a ValueJet crew on August 5 and a separate case involving Ibom Air passenger, Comfort Emmanson, who verbally abused a flight attendant.
Keyamo noted that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had reduced KWAM 1’s flight ban from six months to one month, with the understanding that the artiste would help raise awareness on acceptable behaviour in the aviation sector. He explained that the decision was influenced by appeals from respected individuals and KWAM 1’s public expression of remorse.
Responding to accusations of double standards, Keyamo clarified via his X handle on Wednesday that appointing a repentant offender as an ambassador is a global practice similar to community service.
“It is free, voluntary, and not a paid position. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, some assume the title ‘Ambassador’ comes with perks, but that’s not the case,” he stated.
The minister added that similar roles had been given to repentant individuals in past Nigerian administrations. He also revealed that the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) were considering appointing Comfort Emmanson, who has also shown remorse, as an ambassador for good passenger conduct.
Keyamo stressed that his ministry had handled both cases with fairness, ensuring that all parties were treated equally.
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