Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, has announced that Fuji music legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, will be appointed as an ambassador for airport security protocols across the country.
This decision follows a recent controversy involving the music icon, which led to a temporary flight ban and criminal complaints over alleged misconduct at a Lagos airport.
On August 5, KWAM 1 found himself at the center of an aviation storm after a reported altercation on board a ValueJet flight at the domestic terminal. Two pilots were suspended, and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) initiated a full investigation, linking the disturbance to the artist’s behavior.
As a result, KWAM 1 was placed on a no-fly list, and a formal petition was sent to the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Inspector-General of Police.
However, following a public apology from the singer in which he clarified that a flask he was carrying contained medically prescribed water, not alcohol as initially suspected, the tide appears to have turned.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Minister Keyamo revealed that the NCAA has reduced KWAM 1’s flight ban to just one month. In addition, criminal complaints filed against him by the aviation authorities are being withdrawn.
“Having publicly demonstrated penitence, the NCAA is also to withdraw its criminal complaints against KWAM 1 earlier lodged with the police,” Keyamo confirmed.
Perhaps the most surprising development is the government’s plan to turn the incident into a teachable moment. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will now collaborate with KWAM 1 to promote better passenger behavior at airports.
“As part of measures to ensure celebrities help promote proper conduct at airports across the country, FAAN will work with the music star with a view to engaging him as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol going forward,” the minister stated.
Keyamo emphasized that the government’s response balances accountability with compassion. He also directed aviation bodies to organize a retreat aimed at retraining airport security staff on how to de-escalate tense situations involving passengers.
“The government will never pander to base sentiments, politically-motivated views, or warped legal opinions when clear encroachment of our laws is involved,” he said. “But after these clemencies, we draw a line. Safety and security in our aviation sector remain our top priority.”
