The Federal Government has directed the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to reduce the flight ban imposed on renowned Nigerian musician, Wasiu Ayinde Marshall—popularly known as KWAM 1 or K1 De Ultimate—and to reinstate the licenses of two ValueJet pilots following a recent incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
This decision was announced by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in an official statement issued on Wednesday, August 13.
Background
KWAM 1 had been accused of unruly behavior onboard a ValueJet flight on August 5, 2025. Reports allege that the Fuji star poured alcohol on a pilot and attempted to obstruct the scheduled flight—actions considered a breach of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations, 2023.
In response, the NCAA initially lodged a criminal complaint and suspended KWAM 1’s flight privileges. The licenses of the aircraft’s captain, Oluranti Ogoyi, and co-pilot, Ivan Oloba, were also temporarily withdrawn.
Government’s Directive
Minister Keyamo, after consultations with key aviation stakeholders and reviewing the circumstances of the incident, has now ordered a series of compassionate resolutions aimed at de-escalation and sector-wide reform.
Key decisions include:
KWAM 1’s flight ban is to be reduced to one month.
Additionally, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will collaborate with the artist to serve as an ambassador for responsible conduct and airport security awareness.
All criminal complaints against KWAM 1 are to be withdrawn.
This follows the musician’s public expression of remorse and the appeals made by concerned individuals.
Licenses of ValueJet pilots to be reinstated.
Capt. Ogoyi and First Officer Oloba will have their licenses restored after completing a one-month suspension and undergoing mandatory professional re-appraisal.
Sector-Wide Measures
Keyamo also announced that a sector-wide security retreat will take place next week. This initiative aims to retrain aviation security personnel on handling unruly passengers and managing conflict situations more effectively.
Airline operators will participate in a separate session focused on improving staff conduct and customer service within Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Minister’s Final Comments
“The decisions made are purely on compassionate grounds,” said Keyamo. “While we acknowledge the legal breaches involved, we must also recognize the lessons learned and the importance of setting a new standard moving forward. We are sending a clear message that aviation safety and security are non-negotiable.”
The Minister emphasized that no further breaches will be tolerated, and future incidents will be met with the full force of the law.
