FG Promises to Harness Potential of Aging Population

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The federal government has promised to harness the potential of an aging population, assuring the aged of its commitment to improve the quality of life and wellbeing of Nigerians.

The assurance was given yesterday by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, while delivering an address at the International Day of Older Persons ceremony at the United Nations House in Abuja.

Speaking at the event on the theme: ‘Fulfilling the promise of the universal declaration of human rights for older persons across generations’, which was organised by the UN and the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC), Edu commended the establishment of the NSCC by the NSCC Act 2017 to promote mainstreaming of older persons in the delivery of positive outcomes for the aged.

 She assured them of President Bola Tinubu’s move to reposition the ministry which demonstrated the government’s political will to develop mechanisms and achieve the desired goals.

Edu said such would ensure sustainable systems to improve the quality of life and wellbeing of Nigerians, as well as progressively lift 133 million Nigerians out of poverty.

She noted that: “The NSCC remains the veritable agency to consolidate opportunities for the older population in partnership with the various Ministries, Department and Agencies (MDAs) through multi-sectoral coordination.

“The present administration will ensure adequate support, persuasion of the state governments to domesticate the NSCC Act, VAPP  Act, Persons with Disability Act and National Health Authority Act.

“The present administration will focus on harnessing the potential of an aging population, combat ageism and negative stereotypes as well as close the gaps and inconsistencies in data.”

She added that the administration would focus on research, and human capital development and continue to create systems capable of supporting older persons, including age-friendly environments, universal health coverage, and long-term care systems.

On his part, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Matthias Schmale, reassured Nigerians of the UN’s support for the country in the promotion and protection of the rights of older persons.

Schmale commended the event for being tailored to provide the opportunity for reflection on the impact of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on the protection of the rights of older persons.

He said: “It is my sincere hope that today’s dialogue will allow for reflections on effective promotion and protection of older persons in Nigeria, focusing on their contributions throughout their life, for the knowledge and expertise they can pass on to younger generations.

“As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, the UN in Nigeria is committed to supporting Nigeria’s efforts towards enhancing the promotion and protection of the rights of older persons.”