On the occasion of the International Day for Older Persons, Mrs. Precillia Otti, the wife of the Abia State Governor, has expressed her strong endorsement for the domestication of protective laws for the elderly within the state. Speaking at a dedicated event orchestrated by the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection in Umuahia, Mrs. Otti emphasized the need to prioritize the needs of senior citizens in both state and national discussions and plans. Her support aims to ensure that elderly citizens can enjoy their rights and receive equitable resources from government initiatives, thus enabling a better quality of life for this demographic.
Mrs. Otti announced several initiatives designed to support the elderly, including the implementation of free healthcare services that would be accessible to indigent seniors. She underscored this initiative as a gesture of gratitude for their lifelong contributions to society. According to her, this program will facilitate better health outcomes for seniors, enabling them to relish their later years free from health-related burdens. Furthermore, she pledged that timely payment of pensions would remain a top priority, contributing to the financial stability and peace of mind of older citizens, thereby fostering an environment where they can feel secure and comfortable.
The First Lady also mentioned a collaborative initiative between her office and the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection aimed at reaching the most vulnerable elderly populations in the state. She called upon community members to engage and assist elderly individuals, stating that government efforts alone would not suffice in addressing the needs of this vulnerable group. Mrs. Otti’s commitment to expanding programs focusing on elderly welfare reflects a broader understanding of the role that communal support plays in ensuring the well-being of seniors.
The Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, reiterated the government’s commitment to honoring the rights and needs of older persons during her remarks. She expressed pride in the state’s efforts to formally recognize the International Day of Older Persons, declaring that such observances aim to create a supportive environment for elderly citizens. Mrs. Felix commended the governor for his compassionate approach toward issues affecting seniors, particularly in terms of consistently disbursing their pensions.
The keynote address was delivered by Mazi Ugochukwu Okoroafor, who shared insightful perspectives on the dignity of aging. He emphasized the importance of care and support for seniors, advocating for healthy lifestyle choices that include proper nutrition, regular exercise, and routine medical check-ups. His comments highlight the ongoing need for society to rally around its elderly members, assisting them in maintaining their health and overall well-being as they age.
Observed annually on October 1, the International Day of Older Persons serves as a platform to promote awareness about the challenges and opportunities associated with aging. This year’s theme, “Celebrating the Value of Older Persons, and the Integral Role they Play, Recognizing the Places and the People that Removed the Barriers,” reflects a commitment to improving the lives of older individuals. It mobilizes families, organizations, and stakeholders to work collaboratively in supporting elderly citizens in facing various challenges, reinforcing the collective responsibility we share in ensuring a dignified life for our older population.
