Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has clarified the rationale behind appointing repentant offenders as ambassadors for positive conduct, saying the practice is common worldwide and serves as a form of community service.
In a statement on Wednesday, Keyamo explained that such roles are unpaid and voluntary, contrary to public perception that the title “Ambassador” automatically comes with privileges and benefits.
Keyamo noted that the Aviation agencies are considering using Fuji music legend Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1, for such a role. He added that the Airline Operators of Nigeria are also exploring the possibility of appointing Comfort Emmanson, the passenger recently involved in an onboard altercation on an Ibom Air flight, as an ambassador for good passenger conduct.
According to the minister, Emmanson, who was released from prison custody earlier today, has shown remorse for her actions.
The statement read, “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. 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.
“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.
“Whilst the usual suspects can continue to question our decisions on this issue, we firmly believe we have been fair to all.”