Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo has defended the decision to appoint repentant offenders as ambassadors for public sensitisation on good conduct, describing the practice as a common, voluntary, and unpaid global tradition.
In a statement made on his X account on Wednesday, Keyamo explained that the move was akin to community service and had been practised in Nigeria by previous administrations.
“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,” he wrote.
The minister cautioned against misconceptions that such ambassadorial roles come with prestige or perks.
“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,” he stated.
Keyamo disclosed that aviation agencies were considering appointing Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1) to one of such roles, while the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) were also exploring the appointment of Ms Comfort Emmanson, who had recently expressed remorse for her actions.
“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 said.
Reaffirming the fairness of the ministry’s approach, the minister added, “Whilst the usual suspects can continue to question our decisions on this issue, we firmly believe we have been fair to all.”
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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