The Federal Government has revealed plans to appoint Fuji legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, widely known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for promoting proper airport security procedures, following recent controversy over his actions at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in a statement addressing recent incidents of unruly behaviour at Nigerian airports.
According to Keyamo, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has agreed to shorten KWAM 1’s six-month flight ban to one month. In addition, the musician will partner with aviation authorities to raise public awareness on appropriate conduct within airport premises. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will coordinate the engagement.
“The NCAA will reduce his no-fly period to one month. FAAN will also collaborate with him as an ambassador for proper airport security protocols moving forward. Considering his public show of remorse, the NCAA will withdraw its earlier criminal complaint lodged with the police,” the statement read.
Keyamo noted that the decision came after appeals from concerned individuals and KWAM 1’s open expression of regret over the August 5 incident, in which he was accused of obstructing a ValueJet aircraft’s movement.
The minister further explained that the clemency was granted on compassionate grounds but stressed that the government remains committed to enforcing aviation safety and security laws.
The incident occurred when KWAM 1 reportedly carried a prohibited flask, suspected to contain alcohol, during security screening. He later claimed it contained water for medical purposes. Security officials alleged he spilled the contents on personnel and entered the tarmac, preventing the aircraft from taxiing.
The NCAA initially described the act as a violation of aviation safety regulations, imposing a six-month no-fly ban and filing a criminal case with the police.
