The Federal Government has announced plans to appoint Fuji legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an airport security protocol ambassador following his recent controversy at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in a statement outlining resolutions to several recent cases of unruly behaviour in Nigerian airports.
Flight Ban Reduced, Awareness Campaign Planned
Keyamo revealed that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had agreed to reduce KWAM 1’s flight ban from six months to one month. The authority will also collaborate with the music star to promote public awareness on acceptable conduct within Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will spearhead the engagement process, working with KWAM 1 to promote airport safety rules and security compliance.
“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.
Decision Influenced by Appeals and Public Apology
The minister explained that the decision came after appeals from well-meaning Nigerians and KWAM 1’s public expression of remorse over the August 5, 2025, incident, during which he was accused of obstructing a ValueJet aircraft’s movement.
The artiste has since apologised publicly, stating that the flask in his possession that day contained water for medical purposes — not alcohol, as alleged by security personnel.
Background: The August 5 Abuja Airport Incident
On August 5, 2025, KWAM 1 was involved in a confrontation with airline staff and airport security at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport while preparing to board a ValueJet flight to Lagos.
He was accused of:
- Carrying a prohibited flask believed to contain alcohol
- Spilling its contents on security personnel
- Walking onto the tarmac and allegedly blocking the plane from taxiing
The NCAA initially described his actions as a serious breach of aviation safety regulations, placing him on a six-month no-fly list and filing a criminal complaint with the police.
Government’s Warning on Aviation Safety Compliance
While granting clemency on “compassionate grounds,” Minister Keyamo stressed that the government remains firmly committed to enforcing safety and security laws within the aviation industry.
This move to appoint KWAM 1 as an ambassador is seen as both a disciplinary compromise and an opportunity to educate travellers on the importance of airport security compliance in Nigeria.
