By Chimezie Godfrey
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare of older persons through stronger social protection systems, expanded healthcare access, caregiver training, and deeper collaboration with stakeholders advocating for the rights and wellbeing of senior citizens.
The Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard M. Doro, gave the assurance while receiving members of the Coalition of Societies for the Rights of Older Persons in Nigeria (COSROPIN), led by Senator Dr. Eze D. Ajoku, during a courtesy visit to the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
Responding to issues raised by the delegation, Dr. Doro assured members of the coalition that the Ministry would carefully review all requests and recommendations presented during the engagement.
The Minister apologized for earlier scheduling changes that delayed the meeting and thanked the delegation for its patience and understanding.
“We will take time to carefully look into every request that has been presented to us today and work closely with the National Senior Citizens Centre to ensure that areas requiring intervention receive the necessary attention,” he said.
Dr. Doro disclosed that discussions had already commenced with international partners on strengthening systems for the care of older persons. He revealed that during a recent visit to New York, advanced engagements were held on building local capacity in elderly care, particularly in areas requiring specialized attention and support.
He further stated that proposals are currently being considered to enhance the training of caregivers responsible for supporting older persons, including those living with age-related conditions such as dementia and other special care needs.
On the proposed Rights and Privileges of Older Persons Bill before the National Assembly, the Minister pledged the Ministry’s support and assured the delegation that the matter would be actively pursued through appropriate channels.
Addressing concerns regarding healthcare access, Dr. Doro acknowledged the importance of health insurance for retirees and vulnerable older persons and promised to engage with the Federal Ministry of Health to explore options for extending healthcare support to retired civil servants and older persons in the informal sector.
The Minister also welcomed the National Policy on Ageing presented by the coalition and assured members that the document would be studied thoroughly to identify areas of collaboration that would improve the quality of life and wellbeing of older Nigerians.
According to him, policies aimed at protecting older persons are investments in the future of all Nigerians.
“We will all age at some point. Whatever policies we put in place today to support older persons are ultimately preparing the way for ourselves and future generations,” he stated.
Dr. Doro further assured the delegation of the Ministry’s support for training programmes, advocacy initiatives, and institutional reforms designed to improve elderly care across the country.
He also disclosed plans for continued engagement with the coalition through the establishment of a technical team that would facilitate collaboration between the Ministry, the National Senior Citizens Centre, and other relevant stakeholders.
The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s social protection architecture, reducing poverty, empowering vulnerable populations, and creating sustainable pathways to resilience and prosperity.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, commended COSROPIN for its sustained advocacy on behalf of older persons across Nigeria.
The Permanent Secretary noted that despite a demanding schedule involving official engagements across several states, the Honourable Minister considered it important to receive the delegation and listen directly to the concerns of older persons and their representatives.
He assured the visitors that the Ministry remains committed to promoting the welfare, dignity, and inclusion of senior citizens in line with the Federal Government’s humanitarian and social protection agenda.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Senator Dr. Eze D. Ajoku congratulated Dr. Bernard M. Doro on his appointment as Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, describing the appointment as both timely and well deserved.
He introduced COSROPIN as the umbrella coalition representing more than 170 civil society organisations, faith-based organisations, community-based organisations, retirees’ groups, and institutions dedicated to advancing the rights and welfare of older persons in Nigeria.
Senator Ajoku highlighted the coalition’s contributions to the establishment of the National Senior Citizens Centre and the development of the National Policy on Ageing. He also drew attention to the Rights and Privileges of Older Persons Bill currently before the National Assembly and appealed for the Ministry’s support toward its successful passage and implementation.
The coalition further called for improved healthcare access, expanded health insurance coverage for retirees and vulnerable older persons, stronger social protection systems, and enhanced government support for senior citizens across the country.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment by both parties to deepen collaboration aimed at improving the welfare, dignity, and quality of life of older persons in Nigeria.
The meeting was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya; Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Janet McDickson; Director of the Social Development Department, Mr. Valentine Ezulu; other senior officials of the Ministry; and members of the Coalition of Societies for the Rights of Older Persons in Nigeria (COSROPIN).
FG Moves to Strengthen Elderly Care, Backs Expanded Social Protection for Older Nigerians — Doro
