Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, on Wednesday defended the Federal Government’s decision to consider appointing musician Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for good conduct in the aviation sector, saying the role is voluntary and without financial benefits.
Keyamo explained that the move was in line with global practices where offenders who show remorse are engaged in public campaigns against the conduct for which they were sanctioned.
“For further clarification, it is common practice all over the world that a repentant offender is made to preach publicly against the exact conduct from which he has repented. It is akin to community service. It is not paid for and it is voluntary service,” he said.
Dismissing misconceptions about the title, the minister noted that in Nigeria, some mistakenly view the word “ambassador” as a high-profile position with privileges.
“Unfortunately, in Nigeria, some would assume that once you hear the word ‘Ambassador’ it is a big position that comes with the perquisites of office. No, it is not. It is for free. It is not the first time it is happening in Nigeria and it will not be the last. Examples abound of such roles given to repentant persons by previous governments,” he stated.
The minister further revealed that aside from KWAM 1, aviation agencies were in discussions with the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) to consider appointing Ms. Comfort Emmanson, recently released from prison, as an ambassador for good passenger conduct.
“In my discussion last night with the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), they are also looking at the option of using Ms. Comfort Emmanson, who has also shown remorse, as their own Ambassador for good passenger conduct. It is left for the AON to work out those details since she has been actually released from prison custody today based on my earlier statement,” Keyamo said.
While acknowledging that some critics may continue to question the decision, Keyamo insisted that the ministry’s approach had been fair.
“Whilst the usual suspects can continue to question our decisions on this issue, we firmly believe we have been fair to all,” he concluded.
