KWAM1 will work as Ambassador for free, Emmanson to be appointed by AON – Festus Keyamo

KWAM1 will work as Ambassador for free, Emmanson to be appointed by AON – Festus Keyamo

According to Daily Trust on Wednesday, August 13, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo has clarified the nature of Fuji legend KWAM 1’s proposed role as an airport security protocol ambassador.

Keyamo stressed that the role is strictly voluntary, offering no financial reward or formal appointment. The engagement comes after the federal government reduced KWAM 1’s suspension from air travel—originally six months—to one month, following a confrontation with ValueJet staff on the Abuja–Lagos route.

The Minister said this leniency was extended alongside a pardon for Comfort Emmanson, who faced a separate unruly conduct case. Her charges were withdrawn, and the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) may also involve her in an airport conduct awareness role.

Under the plan, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will have KWAM 1 promote compliance with airport security procedures. Emmanson’s possible role would mirror his in purpose, targeting better passenger behaviour.

Public response has been divided: some see it as a positive use of public figures to promote order, while others question giving ambassadorial titles to individuals who once broke the rules. The Minister said misconceptions about the role—particularly the assumption that it comes with privileges—have fuelled the criticism.

Through his verified X account, Keyamo pointed out that using reformed offenders for public awareness is common internationally and has precedent in Nigeria. He noted that past governments have adopted similar measures to encourage reform.

Both roles, he reiterated, will be unpaid and are intended to harness the ambassadors’ reach to stress the importance of airport protocols. By turning personal mistakes into teaching points, the Ministry hopes to reduce future misconduct and promote accountability.

Naija news channel