The National Senior Citizens Centre, Abia State Stakeholders Consultative Forum on Ageing on Wednesday, 25th of October, reviewed its activities and progress in the state, and called for the domestication of the “THE ABIA STATE SENIOR CITIZENS ACT”.
The Co-chair/Facilitator, NSCC, Abia State Stakeholders Consultative Forum on Ageing, Mazi Ottih Nwaka made this call on the occasion of the second edition of the National Day of Older Persons commemoration in Abia State, stating that NSCC has prepared the forum to serve and manage the older persons in their various states of the federation, adding, “We are here to serve Abia State”.
While calling for the domestication of Abia State Senior Citizens Act in the state Ottih said it will serve as “powerful tool in combating ageism, discrimination, neglect, while fostering an inclusive and age-friendly society for all in Abia State”.
According to him during the occasion with the theme, “Fulfilling the Promises of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for Older Persons”, “In order to develop effective solutions to address some of the challenging needs of the NATIONAL SENIOR CITIZENS, NSCC, Abia State chapter, it is important to ask all Ndi Abia to continue to pray for and support our Executive Governor His Excellency Dr Alex Otti on his commitment towards passing into Law, THE ABIA STATE SENIOR CITIZENS ACT”.
“The law when passed, shall address issues faced by old persons, ranging from physical, social and psychological challenges due to their livelihood, chronic health conditions, lack of adequate care and support. The law shall help our older persons maintain independence, get professional advice on self-care strategies; improve poor communication and coordination of services and improve lack of information on services such as care pathways.
“We appreciate the state governor, Alex Otti for embracing and taking speedy action towards the domestication of the National Senior Citizens Center Policy and Act 2017 in Abia State because he understands that as societies continue to age, we must address the unique challenges faced by older people. He also understands the need to provide a comprehensive framework to promote and safeguard the rights and privileges of these Older persons or Senior Citizens.
“The law shall also serve as a powerful tool in combating ageism, discrimination, neglect, while fostering an inclusive and age-friendly society for all in Abia State.
“By this actions of the Governor, the Abia State Senior Citizens Center shall have the legislative powers to address the pressing issue of elders abuse and neglect, which remains a global concern. Abia State Senior Citizens Center Policy and Act, when itis fully enacted and passed into law shall establish clear guidelines and mechanisms for preventing, detecting, and addressing instances of abuse, whether physical, emotional, financial exploitations and shall promote dignity, autonomy, and independence for older people, while ensuring that they have access to justice and support systems.
“The law shall contribute to a shift in societal attitudes and practices by raising awareness and setting standards for the treatment of older people, ultimately fostering a culture of respect and care for our older population. We must do this for posterity and fir the generation unborn.
“The Domestication and Application of the UN Convention on the rights of older people is crucial to advance and ensure that as we grow older, our rights and well-being are protected and respected. As societies continue to age, we must address the unique challenges faced by older people.
“Noting the elaboration of those rights in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and other declarations, there is the need to pass this act and domesticate it in Abia State to ensure the application of universal standards to this particular groups.
“In pursuance to the International Plan of Action on Ageing, adopted by the World Assembly on Ageing and endorsed by the General Assembly in its resolution 37/51 of 3 December 1982, NSCC appreciates the tremendous diversity in the situation of older persons, not only between countries but within countries and between individuals, which requires a variety of policy responses.
“In various, if not all countries of the world, individuals are attaining advanced age in greater numbers coupled with better health than ever before. Convinced with the fact that in a world characterized by an increasing number and proportion of older persons, opportunities must be provided for willing and capable older persons to participate inand contribute to the ongoing activities of society.
In her speech during the occasion, the wife of the Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti said the theme for 2023 edition, “Fulfilling the Promises of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for Older Persons, is apt, adding, “This is a call for the acknowledgement of the rights of old people. We should show our commitment to ensuring the welfare and dignity of our older citizens.
“This day allows us to appreciate the wisdom, experience, and the enduring role that our seniors play in our communities, passing down the values that make our society strong. We must also acknowledge that they often face unique challenges – from health care to social inclusion and economic security.
“In Abia State, under Dr. Alex Otti’s leadership, we have prioritized their well-being. We have ensured the prompt payment of pensions, providing financial security. We have launched a free medical scheme for quality healthcare services, showing our gratitude for their lifelong contributions”.
In her welcome address, the state Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix advised, “We must ensure their active engagement, full participation and essential contributions, including through social and workplace policies built around their specific needs and rights”.
Also speaking, the Director General of National Senior Citizens Centre, NSCC Emem Omokaro called for enhanced understanding of opportunities, challenges of older persons in Nigerian stating, “The National Senior Citizens Centre received several mentions in her Report and without a doubt her report highlighted the positive and encouraging efforts of Nigeria in many aspects and also highlighted the gaps”.
“At the state level and indeed Abia State, what are the policies, legislations and institutional frameworks on ageing? Are older persons incorporated in sustainable development goals with age-appropriate indicators Including housing, transportation, digital technology and financing etc and in general, how can we strengthen the protection of older persons’ rights and improve not just the quality of life but their dignity and worth?”, he said and assured that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is continuing in the equity and inclusive path of development and will not leave older persons behind.
Wheelchairs and other gifts were presented to members of NSCC from across the state by the wife of the state governor, Her Excellency, Priscilla Chidinma Otti, while the President, Human Right Commission, Uche Nwokocha was the Keynote Speaker.
