By Milcah Tanimu
The House of Representatives has passed a resolution urging for the exemption of military personnel from paying tollgate fees at all airports. This decision, driven by a motion of urgent public importance presented by Abdulsamad Dasuki (APC-Sokoto), aims to recognize and honor the sacrifices of the Armed Forces.
The motion was presented on the House floor in Abuja, following the recent announcement by Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo regarding the cancellation of all VIP tollgate exemptions due to federal revenue losses. Dasuki emphasized the need to show gratitude to military personnel who diligently serve and protect the country, often at great personal risk.
“Members of the Armed Forces are subjected to paying for access to our airports where they are also expected to protect citizens and foreigners alike whether or not they are on duty,” Dasuki stated. He argued that recognizing their service through such exemptions would not only acknowledge their sacrifices but also inspire youths to view military service as a valuable and honorable endeavor.
Dasuki highlighted that while military service is remunerated, the inherent risks and sacrifices involved cannot be fully quantified. He stressed the importance of showing appreciation to the military in tangible ways, such as the proposed tollgate fee exemptions, to prevent the nation from appearing to undervalue their contributions.
Following the adoption of the motion, the House directed Minister Keyamo to ensure the relevant authorities implement the tollgate fee exemptions for military personnel. Additionally, the parliament instructed its aviation committee to oversee compliance with this directive.
This resolution underscores the House’s commitment to recognizing and valuing the contributions of the Armed Forces, reflecting a broader intent to provide them with appropriate privileges in acknowledgment of their service to the nation.