NEWS
Abia Reaffirms Commitment to Senior Citizens as State Joins Global Campaign Against Elder Abuse
The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the protection, welfare and dignity of senior citizens as it joined the global community in commemorating the 2026 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
The observance, which aligns with the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 65/102, is aimed at drawing global attention to the abuse, neglect, exploitation and social exclusion often experienced by older persons, while promoting policies and actions that guarantee their safety and well-being.
Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Prince Kanu explained that the theme for this year’s commemoration, “Beyond Awareness: Making Elder Abuse Prevention Work,” emphasizes the need for practical and sustained actions by governments, communities, institutions and families to safeguard the rights, dignity and security of elderly citizens.
According to him, one of the landmark measures undertaken by the present administration to advance the welfare of senior citizens is the enactment of the Abia State Senior Citizens Law No. 4 of 2025, which provides a legal framework for the protection and support of older persons in the state.
The Commissioner further highlighted the establishment of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre at Aba General Hospital as part of the government’s broader efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence, including incidents involving elderly persons who are often vulnerable to abuse and neglect.
As part of activities marking the global observance, Prince Kanu disclosed that the state government would embark on extensive public sensitization campaigns to educate citizens on elders’ rights, available protection services and mechanisms for reporting abuse and violations against senior citizens.
He added that the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection would engage senior citizens, community stakeholders and development partners on the implementation of the Senior Citizens Policy Framework.
The ministry would also deepen collaboration with healthcare providers, community leaders and social protection actors to ensure the effective delivery of services and support to older persons across the state.
Providing further clarification on the provisions of the law, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, addressed widespread misconceptions regarding the state’s Senior Citizens Law.
Mrs. Felix stressed that the law does not provide monthly salaries or stipends to every resident who attains the age of 60.
She noted that Abia remains one of the few states in Nigeria with a dedicated legal framework specifically designed to promote the welfare, protection and social inclusion of senior citizens.
According to her, the Abia State Senior Citizens Law No. 4 of 2025 guarantees access to healthcare, social protection and welfare support for elderly persons, particularly those who are indigent, vulnerable or unable to adequately care for themselves.
She explained that the law officially recognizes every person aged 60 years and above as a senior citizen within the state but does not create an entitlement to monthly salary payments for all elderly residents.
Addressing the misconception, Mrs. Felix stated:
“The law does not guarantee free salaries for anybody who attains the age of 60.
“It is not designed to encourage people to stop working or depend entirely on government support.
“Many persons who are 60 years and above are still active and contributing meaningfully to society.
“The law is intended to provide support for those who are unable to cater for themselves and require assistance.”
The Commissioner revealed that the ministry has already constituted a committee tasked with developing a comprehensive policy framework to guide the implementation of the law and ensure that its objectives are effectively realized.
She further disclosed that several interventions have already been carried out by the state government in collaboration with the Office of the Wife of the Governor to support elderly citizens, especially those facing health-related and economic challenges.
Mrs. Felix noted that senior citizens are also benefiting from various social protection initiatives implemented by the state government, including cash transfer programmes targeted at vulnerable populations.
Calling on residents to play active roles in protecting elderly persons, she said:
“The Ministry encourages all Abians to stand against elder abuse, support older persons within their communities and promote an inclusive society where every senior citizen can live in dignity, security and hope.”
She added that the date for the state’s major commemoration of the 2026 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day would be announced in due course.
The observance underscores the Alex Otti administration’s commitment to building a compassionate and inclusive society where senior citizens are protected, valued and provided with the support necessary t
o live healthy, dignified and productive lives.