The Federal Government has announced plans to engage Fuji music icon Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for promoting proper airport security protocols, following recent controversy surrounding his conduct at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The development was disclosed 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 the minister, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has agreed to reduce KWAM 1’s six-month flight ban to one month. Additionally, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will lead a collaborative effort to work with the musician in creating public awareness on appropriate behaviour within the aviation environment.
“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,” the statement read. “Having publicly demonstrated penitence, the NCAA is also to withdraw its criminal complaints against KWAM 1 earlier lodged with the police.”
Keyamo stated that the decision followed numerous appeals from well-meaning individuals, as well as the artist’s public apology over the August 5 incident, during which he was accused of obstructing the movement of a ValueJet aircraft.
The controversy arose after KWAM 1 was alleged to have brought a prohibited flask onto the aircraft—believed to contain alcohol—and to have spilled its contents on airport personnel. He was further accused of walking onto the tarmac and blocking the plane from taxiing. The NCAA initially described his actions as a serious breach of aviation safety protocols, placing him on a six-month no-fly list and filing a criminal complaint.
In a subsequent public statement, the musician expressed remorse and clarified that the flask contained water for medical reasons, not alcohol as alleged.
Minister Keyamo stressed that the clemency extended to KWAM 1 was granted on compassionate grounds, noting that while the government remains open to rehabilitation and reconciliation, it will continue to strictly enforce aviation safety and security regulations.
The matter now appears to be resolved, with KWAM 1 set to play a role in public sensitisation on responsible conduct within Nigerian airports.
