Keyamo clarifies role of repentant offenders as aviation ambassadors

Abdullateef Fowewe

Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has clarified that the appointment of repentant offenders as ambassadors for good conduct in the aviation industry is a voluntary, unpaid position akin to community service.

In a statement posted on his X account, Keyamo highlighted that it is a common global practice for individuals who have expressed remorse to publicly advocate against the very misconduct they previously engaged in.

He emphasized that the designation of “ambassador” in this situation should not be confused with a formal government post that comes with benefits.

The statement reads, “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.”