FG names KWAM 1 airport security protocol ambassador

The Federal Government has appointed Fuji music legend, Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for airport security protocols, following the resolution of his recent altercation with ValueJet staff.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed the development on Wednesday, adding that the six-month flight ban earlier imposed on the artiste had been reduced to one month.

KWAM 1 was placed on a no-fly list after a dispute with ValueJet officials over the content of his flask, which was suspected to contain alcohol. The incident attracted public attention and led to disciplinary measures against both the singer and members of the airline’s crew.

Keyamo explained that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will now collaborate with KWAM 1 to promote awareness and compliance with security procedures at the nation’s airports.

In the same announcement, the minister confirmed that the licences of ValueJet’s Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba, suspended in connection with the incident, would be restored after one month, upon completion of a mandatory professional reappraisal.

“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,” Keyamo stated.

He further noted that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) would withdraw its criminal complaint against KWAM 1 in recognition of his public expression of remorse.

The minister emphasised that the resolution was aimed at turning the incident into a lesson in civility, professionalism, and adherence to established aviation rules for both passengers and airline personnel.