Federal Government Appoints KWAM 1 Airport Security Ambassador After Abuja Incident

The Federal Government has announced plans to engage Fuji music star Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for proper airport security protocols, following his recent controversy at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in a statement addressing recent cases of unruly behaviour at Nigerian airports.

Keyamo revealed that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had agreed to reduce KWAM 1’s flight ban from six months to one month. He added that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) would lead efforts to work with the musician in promoting 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.

The decision follows appeals from well-meaning Nigerians and KWAM 1’s public apology over the August 5 incident, during which he allegedly obstructed a ValueJet aircraft’s movement. The minister noted that the clemency was granted on “compassionate grounds” but stressed that the government remains committed to enforcing aviation safety and security laws.

During the incident, KWAM 1 reportedly carried a prohibited flask, believed by security personnel to contain alcohol, which he allegedly spilled on airline staff. He also reportedly walked onto the tarmac, blocking the plane from taxiing. KWAM 1 has since clarified that the flask contained water for medical reasons, not alcohol.

Initially, the NCAA described the actions as a breach of aviation safety regulations, placing KWAM 1 on a six-month no-fly list and filing a criminal complaint with the police.

The new arrangement marks a shift from punitive measures to public advocacy, with KWAM 1 now expected to help raise awareness on proper conduct within airports nationwide.