The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development Sadiya Umar Farouq has assured Older Persons of the Ministry’s commitment to protection of their rights as role models and custodians of tradition.
She gave the assurance at a press briefing to commemorate the International Day of Older Persons in Abuja.
Speaking through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Basheer Nura Alkali, the Minister said, “To the older persons across Nigeria we specially thank you for the contributions you have made in building our great nation and I assure you this Ministry will continue to engage you as individuals and groups to ensure we support you and make life easier for you as people who have lived their lives for the support and service of the nation. We will continue to tap in the wealth of your experience”.
Continuing, “On this day set aside to celebrate older Persons and recognize their contribution to society, I urge us all to treat the older persons around us with respect, dignity and patience they deserve. We should not lose sight of the fact that old age is not a disease or disadvantage but a blessing and season of life we all aspire to attain”.
The Minister is also committed to establishing a National Citizens Centre that will provide trainings and opportunities to develop productive activities and work schemes for senior citizens.
Earlier, the Representative of the World Health Organisation, Dr. Walter K. Motorboat, recommended that “to address the disproportionate burden of COVID-19 on older persons, we must all play a role in shielding our elders, by practicing the preventive measure of wearing masks, keeping a physical distance and frequently washing our hands”.
He added that there should be increased focus on people centered care on the African continent to address the need of different populations including senior citizens.
Present at the event were Director of Social Development Dr . Dorothy Nwodo, Director of Humanitarian Department Grema Ali .A, Senator Eze Ajoku President-Coalition of the Rights of Older Persons in Nigeria, Founder Old Peoples Home Barrister Mrs.Umar Jibrin, Secretary General (COSPOPIN) May Ikokwu and Mrs. Veronica Okolo Director Nursing, Federal Ministry of Health.
Grace Osuji
For:Deputy Director (Information)
September 30th, 2020
