Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has revealed that airline operators are exploring the possibility of appointing Ms. Comfort Emmanson as an ambassador to promote good passenger behavior.
The announcement comes in the wake of her recent release from custody following charges related to unruly conduct on an Ibom Air flight.
In a statement shared on Wednesday via his verified X handle, Keyamo explained the rationale behind such appointments, emphasizing that they are voluntary and serve as a form of community service.
He stated: “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 or she has repented. It is akin to community service. It is not paid for and it is voluntary. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, some assume that once you hear the word ‘Ambassador,’ it is a high-ranking position with perquisites of office. This is not the case—it is for free. Such roles have been given to repentant persons by previous governments in Nigeria, and this is not the first nor the last instance.”
Keyamo further noted that while the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) is considering partnering with legendary Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, for a public sensitization campaign on airport security, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) are also looking at Ms. Emmanson for a similar ambassadorial role due to her expression of remorse. He emphasized that the operational details will be determined by AON.
“Whilst the usual critics may continue to question our decisions on this issue, we firmly believe we have acted fairly to all parties involved,” the Minister added.
Earlier, IREPORT247NEWS reported that Keyamo formally announced the withdrawal of the criminal complaint against Ms. Emmanson. This development followed her arraignment at Ikeja Magistrate’s Court in Ogba, Lagos, where she faced a five-count charge including unruly behavior on board a flight, assaulting airline crew members, and acts likely to breach public order. At her arraignment on Monday, August 11, Emmanson pleaded not guilty to all allegations.
During the subsequent proceedings, Police Prosecutor Oluwabunmi Adeitan informed the court that the complainant and the airline were no longer interested in pursuing the matter and requested that the case be withdrawn, citing instructions from police authorities. Acting on this request, Presiding Magistrate Olanrewaju Salami struck out all charges and ordered Emmanson’s immediate discharge from custody.
This resolution marks a turning point in the incident, as Ms. Emmanson now has the opportunity to contribute positively to public awareness campaigns aimed at promoting proper passenger conduct and compliance with aviation security regulations.