In a move governed by Order 8 Rule 5 of the House Standing Orders, Abdulsamad Dasuki, the initiator of an urgent motion of public importance, emphasized the necessity of exempting armed forces personnel from tollgate fees at all Nigerian airports. This exemption, he argued, acknowledges the unique responsibilities of the armed forces in safeguarding the nation and its citizens.
The motion follows the recent cancellation of VIP exemptions on airport access payments by Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, citing significant revenue losses for the federal government.
Dasuki highlighted the vital contributions of the armed forces, who tirelessly ensure national security, protect resources, maintain safe maritime navigation, secure borders—including the Gulf of Guinea, creeks, Sahara desert, and forests—and combat threats such as banditry within communities.
“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, amid other effects.
“Honouring these men and women in uniform, and also encouraging fellow citizens to acknowledge their service to the nation is the right step to take as a way to appreciate the immeasurable sacrifices they make.”
FG begins awareness campaign on new policy
Meanwhile, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, has commenced a public awareness campaign to ensure airport users had adequate information about the new policy on access gate fees.
According to Kuku, prompt implementation of Keyamo’s directive will solve revenue leakages.
