ABUJA, Nigeria — The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will appoint Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for airport security protocol, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo has announced.
In a statement on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, Keyamo said the move is part of a broader strategy to enlist prominent public figures in promoting proper conduct at airports nationwide.
“In the case of KWAM 1, 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.”
The announcement follows the musician’s public apology after an incident on August 5 that led to his being placed on a no-fly list and the suspension of two ValueJet pilots.
KWAM 1 said the flask he carried at the time contained medically prescribed water, not alcohol, as was alleged.
The minister also confirmed that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had reduced the musician’s flight ban from an indefinite period to one month and would withdraw the criminal complaint lodged with law enforcement.
Keyamo further directed aviation bodies to hold a retreat focused on retraining security personnel to handle unruly passengers and de-escalate tense situations before they escalate.
He emphasised that the decisions in KWAM 1’s case were taken on compassionate grounds but stressed the government’s continued commitment to enforcing aviation safety and security laws.
“We will never pander to base sentiments, politically-motivated views or warped legal opinions when clear encroachment of our laws is involved,” he said.
“The government takes safety and security in the aviation sector very seriously and has decided to draw a line after these clemencies.”
