The Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, has said that hosting of the Regional Conference on the Right of Older Persons in Africa by the Nigerian Government demonstrates President Muhammadu Buhari’s commitment to include older persons in its agenda of prioritizing the health of Nigerians. Dr. Ehainire, stated this during the event, recently, in Abuja.
He said that the conference is apt, as African governments strive for Universal Health Coverage to ensure that the important vulnerable elderly population is not left out of the social safety net. The Minister maintained that Nigeria’s commitment to health and social rights for the Elderly will be key on changing the game in Africa.
‘’Nigeria has endorsed and is committed to achieving goals and targets of the Global Strategic Plan of Action on Health and Ageing 2016-2020 and also to the 2020-2030 decade of healthy Ageing, which address SDG NO.3 on Health and wellbeing’’
In view of this, the Minister informed that the Ministry of Health held a National Summit on Healthy Ageing in December 2018 and is formally committed to addressing the question, by advocating a conducive social environment for healthy ageing. Also, the establishment and implementation of comprehensive health services for the elderly, which include care at point of need, research and training of caregivers at all levels of Government.
He added that the Nigerian Government recently launched its Nation Policy Framework on Healthcare for the Aged titled ‘’Health Ageing’’, which is presumed to be the first Policy in the sub-Sahara Africa and is meant to provide a model for healthcare.
Dr Ehanire reiterated that the present Administration’s aim for Universal Health Coverage alters the unsatisfactory situation with the recent approval by President Muhammadu Buhari of 1% of Federal Consolidated Revenue Fund and to create the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund as provided for in the National Health Act 2014, and offer free basic package of healthcare to the poor and vulnerable.
He urged stake holders to give adequate attention to the important aspects of social integration, mental health, psychosocial support, occupational therapy, catering comprehensively to the needs of the ageing population while giving the Elderly in Africa a life of comfort and peace.
Enefaa Bob-Manuel
Head Media and Public Relations
