There is need for an urgent call to address the pressing needs of senior citizens across Nigeria, especially as a response to the significant challenges faced by older persons
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) and National Senior Citizen Centre (NSCC) have partnered to canvass support for senior citizens in the country.
The Director-General of NOA, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, said this in a statement in Abuja on Friday by the agency’s Deputy Director, Press, Paul Odenyi.
Issa-Onilu said that respect for elderly was an enduring national value when officials of NSCC led by its Director-General, Dr Emem Omokaro paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.
According to him, one of Nigeria’s enduring values is respect and support for the elderly people, that is why such partnership is imperative and timely for sustainability of Nigeria core value.
The director-general said that NOA’s partnership with NSCC would help to articulate care support for senior citizens in Nigeria.
“There is need for an urgent call to address the pressing needs of senior citizens across Nigeria, especially as a response to the significant challenges faced by older persons, such as poverty, negative stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination.
“Those challenges faced by the elderly people often lead to their exclusion from development programmes, as well as instances of abuse.
“We are actively pursuing reforms to better serve agencies like NSCC and mobilise Nigerians for meaningful causes,” he said.
The Director-General of NSCC, Omokaro, emphasised the urgent need to address these challenges and ensure the well-being of senior citizens.
According to him, NSCC vision is to create a society where older people have the rights to be secured.
He underscored the importance of providing support and care for Nigeria’s elderly population.(NAN)