The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced a significant adjustment to the sanctions imposed on Fuji music icon Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, and two ValueJet flight crew members, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the NCAA confirmed that KWAM 1’s indefinite flight ban — issued following a widely reported incident at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja — has been reduced to one month. The same decision applies to the suspended licenses of Captain Ogoyi and First Officer Oloba, who were earlier penalized for their roles in the episode. The Authority stated that after one month, the ValueJet pilots’ licenses will be restored in full.
The incident, which sparked intense public debate, allegedly involved a disruption to airport operations after KWAM 1 and members of his entourage were reported to have breached security protocols while boarding a ValueJet flight. Initial investigations led to swift disciplinary measures, including grounding the pilots and placing a ban on the musician’s use of commercial flights in Nigeria.
NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mike Achimugu, explained that the decision to reduce the sanctions followed a comprehensive review of the case, consultations with stakeholders, and consideration of mitigating circumstances.
“We have reviewed the facts and the responses from all parties involved. While safety and adherence to aviation protocols remain non-negotiable, we believe the penalties can be moderated without undermining our commitment to global aviation standards,” Achimugu said.
In a related development, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) announced that KWAM 1 will now serve as an Ambassador for Proper Airport Security Protocol, working with the agency to promote compliance and awareness campaigns among travelers and the public.
According to FAAN’s General Manager of Corporate Affairs, the initiative is part of a broader public education strategy aimed at ensuring that incidents of protocol breaches are minimized in the future. KWAM 1, in his new role, will participate in advocacy programs, airport sensitization tours, and media campaigns to encourage Nigerians to observe the correct procedures at all airports.
Industry watchers say the move represents a balanced approach — imposing penalties to reinforce discipline while also turning a high-profile personality into a partner for reform. While some Nigerians have praised the decision as “constructive diplomacy,” others argue that it might set a lenient precedent for influential figures.
Captain Ogoyi and First Officer Oloba are expected to undergo a refresher safety protocol training before their licenses are reissued. NCAA stressed that both pilots’ professional records will reflect the one-month suspension, but they will be allowed to resume duties once the period lapses.
KWAM 1 has yet to release an official statement, but close associates say he welcomes the resolution and is ready to support FAAN’s campaign to improve traveler conduct and airport security compliance across the country.
The one-month sanction period begins immediately, with full reinstatements expected by mid-September 2025.
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