Keyamo Defends Making KWAM 1 Aviation Security Ambassador, Says Role Is Unpaid Community Service

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo has defended naming KWAM 1 an ambassador for airport conduct.

He says the role is unpaid community service following the Fuji star’s display of remorse.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has defended the Federal Government’s decision to appoint Fuji legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol.

The appointment follows criticism over recent incidents of unruly conduct at Nigerian airports involving both KWAM 1 and Ibom Air passenger Comfort Emmanson. Keyamo explained that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had reduced KWAM 1’s one-year flight ban to a month and agreed to work with him to promote awareness on acceptable behavior within the aviation sector.

He said the decision was influenced by public appeals and KWAM 1’s visible remorse over the August 5 incident, where he allegedly blocked a ValueJet aircraft from moving. According to Keyamo, it is common practice worldwide for a repentant offender to publicly campaign against the exact behavior they once displayed  a form of community service that is voluntary and unpaid.

“In Nigeria, some assume the title ‘Ambassador’ comes with perks or an official position, but it does not. This is not the first time such a role has been given to a repentant individual, and it won’t be the last,” Keyamo stated.

He also revealed that the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) are considering appointing Comfort Emmanson  who has also expressed remorse and was released from prison the same day  as an ambassador for good passenger conduct.

Keyamo concluded by saying that while critics are free to question the move, the ministry believes its decision has been fair to all parties involved.

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