KWAM 1’s aviation ambassador role is unpaid community service, says Keyamo

Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace development, has clarified KWAM 1’s appointment as an unpaid community service role.

The minister released this statement on his X page shortly after his announcement of KWAM 1’s ambassadorial role went viral and was heavily criticized by Nigerians.

Keyamo likened the ambassadorial role to voluntary community service, adding that the position carries no salary or official benefits.

The minister also addressed the raised issue of favouritism, stating that it is a common practice for repentant offenders to advocate against the misconduct they once engaged in publicly.

“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. 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,” Keyamo wrote.

“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 in Nigeria,” he added.

Speaking further, he mentioned that aviation authorities are also considering Ms. Comfort Emmanson as an ambassador following her rift with Ibom Airline officials.

He disclosed that the details would be made public as soon as the Airport Operators of Nigeria (AON) are done with the arrangements.

“Whilst the aviation agencies are considering using KWAM 1 for such a role, 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,” he added.

The minister also addressed the critics, stressing that the government’s decision is without bias.

“Whilst the usual suspects can continue to question our decisions on this issue, we firmly believe we have been fair to all,” he concluded.