FAAN Accused of Systemic Discrimination as 2016/2017 Aviation Officers Protest Reversed Seniority, Stagnation

Hundreds of Nigerian Aviation Security and Firefighting officers recruited in 2016/2017 have accused the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) of systemic discrimination, certificate suppression, reversed seniority, and abuse of office. In a petition to the Aviation Union, the officers allege that while their higher qualifications were ignored for nearly eight years, junior officers recruited between 2019 and 2023 were upgraded, backdated, and placed above them in rank and salary. They also cite harassment, intimidation, and unprofessional HR practices, demanding a full review, restoration of seniority, backdated promotions, and an independent investigation.

Surprise Reunion in Kano! — Governor Abba Yusuf and Ex-Governor Ganduje Meet for the First Time Since 2023 Election

In a rare and unexpected encounter, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his predecessor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, came face-to-face on Tuesday for the first time since the fiercely contested 2023 gubernatorial election.

According to DAILY POST, the meeting occurred at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, marking nearly two years since the political rivals last crossed paths.

Witnesses described the moment as cordial and surprisingly friendly, as both men exchanged pleasantries despite their history of political tension.

Ganduje, who currently serves as the Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), was reportedly in Kano for an inspection visit, while Governor Yusuf was preparing to board a flight to Abuja.

Their unexpected encounter comes years after Ganduje chose not to personally hand over power to Yusuf in 2023, instead delegating the task to then Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Usman Alhaji.

Governor Yusuf of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) had defeated Ganduje’s preferred candidate, Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in what was one of Nigeria’s most intense gubernatorial races.

The brief exchange at the airport has since stirred public interest, with many interpreting it as a possible symbol of reconciliation or at least mutual respect between two of Kano’s most influential political figures.

Lawyer Sues FG, NCAA for N500bn Over Alleged Special Treatment of KWAM1.

Public interest lawyer Ayodele Ademiluyi has filed a N500 billion suit at the Federal High Court, Lagos, against the Federal Government, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and others over alleged breaches of the rule of law in two aviation incidents involving musician King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (Kwam 1) and passenger Ms. Comfort Emmanson.

The suit, FHC/L/CS/1632/25, lists the President, Attorney-General of the Federation, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo (SAN), NCAA, FAAN, Ibom Air, ValueJet, Nigerian Correctional Service, King Wasiu, Nigerian Police Force, Governor of Akwa Ibom, the state’s Attorney-General, and the Airline Operators of Nigeria as respondents.

Addressing journalists, Ademiluyi said the action aims to “enforce accountability and protect the public interest,” stressing that the matter “transcends the personalities involved” and reflects “systemic d£cay” in the aviation sector.

“Our aviation system needs a complete overhauling. We cannot allow impunity to reign or degenerate into a banana republic where someone can stop a plane with their bare hands and walk away without consequence,” he said.

He accused authorities of failing to arrest or prosecute Kwam 1 while Emmanson faced swift sanctions. “It’s a gross imbalance… In fact, he was rewarded with a brand ambassadorship for the aviation sector.

What message does that send to the public?” Ademiluyi argued that appointing Kwam 1 as ambassador “sends the wrong signal” and alleged that Minister Keyamo acted “as if speaking for one of the airlines rather than enforcing the law.”

On the Airline Operators of Nigeria’s handling of the Emmanson case, he said the body acted as “complainant, prosecutor and judge” in imposing — then reversing — a life ban. “The central issue remains: Mr. Kwam 1 is walking the streets free. That is a big sl+p on the rule of law.” He urged the judiciary to set a precedent “that no one, regardless of influence or status, is above the law.”

Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo asks for Kwam1’s flight ban to be reduced to one month and for him to be made an ambassador by FAAN.

Ibom Air Drama Sparks Urgent Call for Aviation Security Overhaul — Expert Warns


Security consultant Onyekachi Adekoya has described the recent Ibom Air incident as a “wake-up call” for Nigeria’s aviation sector, urging urgent reforms, better training, and stricter security protocols to restore public confidence.

During an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Adekoya stressed that while aviation security is a global priority, Nigeria’s approach lacks the necessary seriousness. He noted that the Ibom Air crew appeared unprepared to handle the situation, calling it a reflection of a “general Nigerian problem” rather than an issue with international standards or procedures.

He urged Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo to address faulty equipment, non-functional facilities, and operational lapses. Adekoya also reminded passengers that misconduct onboard is a federal crime, warning that politically convenient resolutions to the case would not reassure the public.

Highlighting the crucial role of cabin crew, he warned that political considerations in safety decisions undermine the aviation security framework. “It’s time for stricter enforcement, better preparation, and zero tolerance for negligence,” he said.

#IbomAir #AviationSecurity #NigeriaNews #FlightSafety #AviationReform #AirTravel #BreakingNews #OnyekachiAdekoya #FAAN #NCAA

JUST IN: Federal govt reduces Kwam 1’s flight ban.

The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has announced that Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, popularly known as Kwam 1, will have his flight ban reduced to one month by the NCAA following his unruly behaviour at a ValueJet flight.

Keyamo stated that FAAN will collaborate with the music star to engage him as an ambassador for proper airport security protocols going forward.

Keyamo also confirmed that the NCAA has withdrawn its criminal complaints against Kwam 1 after he publicly demonstrated remorse for his conduct.

He said the decisions are part of broader measures to ensure aviation safety while recognising penitence and promoting public awareness of proper conduct in Nigeria’s airports.

“These above decisions were taken by Government and the airline operators purely on COMPASSIONATE grounds as Government will never pander to base sentiments, politically-motivated views or warped legal opinions when clear encroachment of our laws are involved.

“We are also sending a CLEAR MESSAGE that we take safety and security in the aviation sector very seriously and we have decided to draw a line after these clemencies,” he added.

Rights Group Demands Probe Into Ibom Air–Passenger Incident

The Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has urged the Ministry of Aviation, NCAA, and FAAN to launch a thorough investigation into an alleged incident involving Ibom Air officials and Ms. Comfort Emmanson, a female passenger on a Uyo–Lagos flight.

#IbomAir #CHRAN #AviationSafety #PassengerRights #UyoToLagos #NigeriaAviation #HumanRights #AviationNews

PRESS STATEMENT: DECISION TO WITHDRAW CRIMINAL COMPLAINT AGAINST MS. COMFORT EMMANSON AND TO ADDRESS RELATED MATTERS

1. In the last 48 hours, I have been in consultation with critical stakeholders in the Aviation Sector and those involved in the unfortunate incidents regarding the unruly behaviours of certain individuals at our airports of recent.

2. Though regrettable, we think valuable lessons have been learnt by all sides to these incidents and airport security protocol, especially, have been well highlighted for the travelling public. If nothing at all, the episodes have undoubtedly helped to raise public awareness about appropriate conduct within the aviation space.

3. As highlighted in my previous statements on the last two incidents, clear wrongs were committed by both the offending passengers and staff of the airlines involved from all the evidence available to us and those available to the public. It is clear that all the actors involved cannot continue to highlight the injury or injustice done to them without acknowledging their own equal culpability.
5. Therefore, after reviewing the entire incidents, including appeals made by well-meaning individuals and remorse shown by the actors, the following decisions have been reached:

THE CASE OF IBOM AIRLINE AND MS. COMFORT EMMANSON

(a) In the case of the unruly passenger, Ms. Comfort Emmanson, on the Ibom Airline on Sunday, the 10th of August, 2025, I have conferred with Ibom Airline to withdraw the Complaint against her today. When the Police took her Statement in presence of her lawyer, she exhibited great remorse for her conduct.

(b) Subsequent to the withdrawal of the complaint by the Complainant, the CP of Airport Command and the Police Prosecutor will immediately take the remaining steps to facilitate her release from Kirikiri Prisons within this week.

(c) I have also conferred with the leadership of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and have appealed to them to lift the life-time flying ban imposed on her, to which they agreed. The details of the resolution will be made public by the AON subsequently. THE CASE OF VALUEJET AND WASIU AYINDE MARSHALL (KWAM 1)

(d) In the case of KWAM 1, the NCAA is to reduce his flight ban to a one-month period. FAAN will also work with the music star with a view to engaging him as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol going forward.
(e) Having publicly demonstrated penitence, the NCAA is also to withdraw its criminal complaints against KWAM 1 earlier lodged with the Police.

(f) In the case of Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba of VALUEJET, the NCAA is to restore their licenses after the same period of one-month ban after undergoing some mandatory professional re-appraisal. The details will be announced by the NCAA.

AIRLINE OPERATORS, AVIATION AND OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCIES

6. I have directed all relevant Aviation agencies in collaboration with other complementary agencies outside aviation to IMMEDIATELY begin a retreat NEXT WEEK to properly retrain and prepare our Aviation security personnel on how to deal with errant and disruptive passengers and how to deescalate potentially explosive situations. The retreat will be fully covered by the Press with the opportunity to ask all the relevant questions.

7. The Airlines will also have their own session when the conduct and attitude of their staff towards members of the travelling public will be in full focus.

FINAL COMMENTS
8. These above decisions were taken by Government and the airline operators purely on COMPASSIONATE grounds as Government will never pander to base sentiments, politically-motivated views or warped legal opinions when clear encroachment of our laws are involved.

9. We are also sending a CLEAR MESSAGE that we take safety and security in the aviation sector very seriously and we have decided to draw a line after these clemencies.

FESTUS KEYAMO

BREAKING: KWAM 1’s no-fly ban reduced to one month, all criminal charges withdrawn. FAAN to appoint him as Ambassador for Aviation Security Protocol.

AON Slams Lifetime No-Fly Ban on Ibom Air Passenger Over Violent Assault

The Airline Operators of Nigeria has banned Comfort Emmanson for life after she allegedly assaulted Ibom Air crew on a Uyo–Lagos flight.

AON says the attack — which included slapping staff, tearing a Purser’s wig, smashing glasses, and attempting to use a fire extinguisher as a weapon — is one of the most extreme cases of unruly passenger behaviour in 2025.

She was arrested, arraigned, and remanded at Kirikiri Prison.

#AON #IbomAir #NoFlyList #NigeriaAviation #AviationSafety #FlightBan #ZeroTolerance #FAAN

FAAN Warns Unruly Passengers, Vows Strict Sanctions.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has raised alarm over rising cases of disr+ptive passenger behaviour at airports, warning that offenders will face severe penalties under existing aviation laws.

In a Monday statement, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, said such conduct “is entirely unacceptable within the framework of civil aviation and will not be tolerated.”

The agency urged travellers to familiarise themselves with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority’s Passengers’ Rights and Responsibilities, as well as FAAN’s bye-laws, to avoid sanctions.

FAAN stressed it will strictly enforce penalties in line with ICAO Annex 17, Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Part 17), and its bye-laws against any disruptive or thr+atening acts within airport premises.

It also announced an ongoing review of security protocols to improve restraint and prosecution of offenders in line with the Airport Approved Security Programme.

On a recent incident involving a passenger aboard an Ibom Air flight, FAAN said the individual was initially handled by security at Lagos’ MMA2 terminal before being taken into custody by Aviation Security personnel and handed over to the police for investigation and prosecution.

FAAN appealed for civility, reiterating that the safety, security, and comfort of all airport users remain its priority, and that inappropriate behaviour will attract “the full weight of applicable laws and protocols.”

Unruly Passenger On A Flight From Uyo  To Be Charged To Court After  Assaulting A Flight Attendant, Others

At approximately 1430hrs on Sunday, August 10, 2025, a case involving an unruly passenger was reported by Ibom Air following the arrival of flight QI 513 from Uyo.

The passenger, identified as Ms. Comfort Emmanson, a§§aulted crew member Ms. Juliana Edward upon arrival at the terminal.

According to information gathered by CPO, passengers had been instructed to switch off their mobile phones prior to landing. Ms. Emmanson repeatedly refused to comply, despite several appeals from the cabin crew. 

Upon landing, the crew delayed her disembarkation while awaiting the arrival of BASL AVSEC and FAAN AVSEC personnel. During this time, Ms. Emmanson physically a§§aulted Ms. Edward.

Singer K1 De Ultimate Apologises Over Airport Incident, Denies Alcohol Allegation.

Fuji music legend, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, has issued a formal apology following an incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.

In a statement personally signed by the veteran singer, K1 expressed deep regret over the misunderstanding, which sparked reports suggesting he had attempted to board a flight with alc%hol in his flask. He, however, firmly denied the claim, clarifying that the flask contained only water due to a medical condition.

“Unknown to many, I s¥ffer from chronic dehydration and have been medically advised to stay constantly hydrated. The flask I carried that day contained only water not alc%hol as speculated,” he explained. According to the singer, the flask was empty during two rounds of security checks and was only filled with water at the airport lounge before proceeding to the tarmac.

He further noted that he had not boarded the aircraft at the time of the incident. While insisting he had no intention to disrupt airport protocols or cause emb@rrassment, K1 apologised to all parties concerned, including the Presidency, Ministry of Aviation, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), ValueJet, and his global fanbase.

“I deeply regret any concern this incident may have caused. My loyalty to Nigeria and commitment to upholding its image remain steadfast. I would never do anything to tarnish the reputation I’ve built over the past five decades,” he added.

K1 reaffirmed his dedication to promoting Nigerian culture and music worldwide and expressed appreciation to those who reached out with concern and support during the controversy.

Temporary Loss Of Sanity’ – FG Breaks Silence On Airport Incident.

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo (SAN) has reacted to an airport incident involving ValueJet airline and popular musician, Ayinde Marshall, also known as K1 de Ultimate or Kwam 1.

Naija News recalls that on August 5, the NCAA suspended two ValueJet pilots over a safety breach that occurred at the same airport terminal.

The preliminary findings revealed that the pilots initiated departure procedures without obtaining the mandatory pre-departure clearance, a violation that posed serious risks to ground personnel and other airport users.

The breach reportedly followed a commotion onboard the flight, allegedly caused by Kwam 1’s conduct.

The Fuji icon was seen drinking from a flask aboard the aircraft. A flight attendant intervened, suspecting the liquid was alcohol, a banned substance on Nigerian flights.

In its official statement, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) said Kwam 1 attempted to board the aircraft with an unidentified liquid despite repeated warnings from Aviation Security (AVSEC) and the flight captain.

Reacting in a statement on Thursday, Keyamo stated that the incident was a case of temporary loss of sanity and control on both sides which could have led to serious fatalities.

He described the physical blockage of the aircraft from taxiing as a reprehensible conduct which is akin to a hostage situation.

His statement reads: “I have received reports from all the relevant Aviation agencies regarding the altercation between the staff and crew of ValueJet and Kwam 1 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Tuesday, August 7, 2025. I have also received video footages of the incident.

Nigerians react to the state of a ceiling during the inauguration of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) board headed by the former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

Former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has been officially appointed as the Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). His new role is expected to bring political experience into the management of Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure.

#BreakingNews #Ganduje #FAAN #NigeriaAviation #LeadershipUpdate #KanoPolitics