The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has defended the Federal Government’s decision to name Fuji music legend, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol.
The move comes amid intense public debate over recent cases of unruly behaviour at Nigerian airports — notably KWAM 1’s altercation on August 5, when he obstructed a ValueJet aircraft’s movement, and the viral incident involving Ibom Air passenger, Comfort Emmanson, who clashed with an air hostess.
Keyamo disclosed that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had initially banned KWAM 1 from flying but reduced the sanction to one month after appeals from notable individuals and the artiste’s public show of remorse.
He explained that the ambassadorial role is part of a corrective measure to promote awareness on acceptable behaviour within the aviation sector.
Addressing critics on his official X handle on Wednesday, the minister said the decision aligns with global best practices where repentant offenders are engaged in public sensitisation against the same misconduct they committed.
“It is common practice all over the world that a repentant offender is made to preach publicly against the exact conduct from which he has repented. It is akin to community service. It is not paid for, and it is a voluntary service,” Keyamo wrote.
He clarified that the term “ambassador” does not confer an official position or financial benefits but serves as a symbolic role to drive public education.
Reacting to allegations of bias, Keyamo revealed that the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) are considering giving Emmanson a similar role as an ambassador for good passenger conduct, following her release from prison custody.
“Whilst the Aviation agencies are considering using KWAM 1 for such a role, the AON is also looking at the option of using Ms. Comfort Emmanson, who has shown remorse, as their own Ambassador,” he added.
Keyamo maintained that the ministry’s decisions in both incidents were fair, stressing that the ultimate goal is to foster discipline, respect for protocols, and improved passenger conduct across Nigerian airports.
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