The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has offered a detailed explanation regarding the Federal Government’s decision to appoint legendary Fuji musician, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for promoting proper airport security protocol across the country.
This appointment, which has sparked mixed reactions from the public, comes in the wake of heightened attention on airport behavior following two separate high-profile incidents. The first involved KWAM 1 himself, and the second centered on Ibom Air passenger Comfort Emmason, who was involved in a confrontation with an air hostess. Both cases drew significant social media commentary and raised questions about passenger conduct, safety, and respect for aviation regulations.
According to Keyamo, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had initially placed a ban on KWAM 1 for his involvement in an August 5, 2025, incident, where he allegedly delayed the movement of a ValueJet aircraft. However, after thorough consideration, the NCAA decided to reduce the ban period to one month. In addition, they resolved to partner with the musician in an awareness campaign aimed at enlightening the public about the importance of complying with airport security rules and maintaining proper conduct when traveling by air.
The Minister stressed that this decision was not made lightly but was influenced by several factors, including widespread appeals from concerned citizens and KWAM 1’s own open expression of regret over the incident. He explained that the government sees value in converting moments of personal error into opportunities for education and reform, thereby turning a negative experience into a tool for positive social change.
His words …
“For further clarification, 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 voluntary service.
Unfortunately, in Nigeria, some would assume that once you hear the word ‘Ambassador’ it is a big position that comes with the perquisites of office. No, it is not. It is for free. It is not the first time it is happening in Nigeria and it will not be the last. Examples abound of such roles given to repentant persons by previous governments in Nigeria.”
Keyamo further disclosed that the initiative would not be limited to KWAM 1 alone. He revealed that during his recent discussions with the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), they explored the idea of involving Ms. Comfort Emmason, the Ibom Air passenger who also faced sanctions for her misconduct, in a similar advocacy role. According to him, she has equally demonstrated remorse and has now been released from prison custody following his earlier public statement.
“Whilst the Aviation agencies are considering using KWAM 1 for such a role, in my discussion last night with the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), they are also looking at the option of using Ms. Comfort Emmanson, who has also shown remorse, as their own Ambassador for good passenger conduct. It is left for the AON to work out those details since she has been actually released from prison custody today based on my earlier statement.
Whilst the usual suspects can continue to question our decisions on this issue, we firmly believe we have been fair to all.”
The Minister concluded by reiterating that these appointments were not political favors or privileged roles, but rather public service initiatives aimed at fostering a culture of respect, safety, and professionalism in Nigeria’s aviation sector. By engaging those who have been directly involved in controversial situations, the Ministry hopes to send a strong message that mistakes can be corrected and that individuals can actively contribute to preventing future incidents of misconduct.
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