FG appoints KWAM 1 as Airport Security Protocol Ambassador after flight incident

The Federal Government has revealed plans to appoint Fuji legend, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol following the recent controversy over his conduct at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo made this known in a statement on Wednesday, detailing resolutions to recent cases of unruly behaviour at Nigerian airports.

He said the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had agreed to cut KWAM 1’s six-month flight ban to one month and would collaborate with the musician to promote awareness on acceptable behaviour in the aviation sector.

According to Keyamo, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will lead the engagement process, while the NCAA will also withdraw its criminal complaint against the singer.

“The NCAA is to reduce his flight ban to a one-month period. FAAN will also work with the music star with a view to engaging him as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol going forward.”

“Having publicly demonstrated penitence, the NCAA is also to withdraw its criminal complaints against KWAM 1 earlier lodged with the police,” the statement read.

The minister said the decision followed appeals from respected individuals and KWAM 1’s public apology over the August 5 incident in which he allegedly obstructed a ValueJet aircraft’s movement.

The artiste has maintained that the flask he carried contained water for medical purposes and not alcohol, as claimed by airport security officials.

Keyamo stressed that the clemency was granted on compassionate grounds but warned that the government would continue to strictly enforce safety and security laws in the aviation industry.

On August 5, KWAM 1 reportedly engaged in a confrontation with airline staff and security officers while attempting to board a ValueJet flight to Lagos, carrying a flask believed to contain alcohol.

He was accused of spilling its contents on personnel and walking onto the tarmac to block the plane from taxiing, prompting the NCAA to issue the initial six-month flight ban and file a criminal case against him.