The House of Representatives yesterday asked the Ministry of Aviation to exempt members of the armed forces from toll gate fees and parking payments at airports, train stations and seaports.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Abdussamad Dasuki (PDP, Sokoto). Dasuki noted that it was reported on May 14 that the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the cancellation of all exemptions on airport access payments for VIPs due to the huge revenue losses to the government.

Dasuki said: “Men and women of the armed forces honour our nation with the highest form of service and without reservation; keeping us safe from harm, protecting our wealth and territorial integrity, ensuring safe navigation on our territorial waters, protecting our borders including the Gulf of Guinea, Creeks, Sahara Desert and forests, and fighting armed bandits who invade our communities.

“Aware that it is important to show gratitude by honouring our brothers and sisters who are voluntarily serving under our flag, putting in their active years to keep our nation safe with some losing their lives, and some becoming disabled from the battlefield amidst other effects.