The Federal Government has appointed Fuji music legend, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, better known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for proper airport security protocols, following a recent controversy at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the decision on Wednesday while outlining resolutions to cases of unruly behaviour at Nigerian airports.
According to Keyamo, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reduced KWAM 1’s flight ban from six months to one month and will collaborate with him to promote awareness on acceptable conduct in the aviation sector.
“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.
Keyamo said the decision was influenced by appeals from concerned individuals and KWAM 1’s public apology over the August 5 incident, where he allegedly obstructed the movement of a ValueJet aircraft.
The incident occurred after security personnel accused the singer of carrying a prohibited flask believed to contain alcohol. KWAM 1 later insisted the flask contained water for medical reasons, not alcohol, as claimed.
The minister stressed that the clemency was granted on “compassionate grounds” but warned that the government would continue to strictly enforce aviation safety and security laws.
On August 5, KWAM 1 was accused of spilling liquid believed to be alcohol on airport staff and security
