Stakeholders Call For Protection Of Older Persons

Stakeholders in the Humanitarian space have called for the deliberate protection of Older persons with dignity. The submission was made in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital as part of activities marking the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Nasir Gwarzo said due to the growing concerns by families and communities, the Ministry has developed policies and strategies to give the older persons some sense of belonging.

The Director General of the National Senior citizens Center, Emem Omokaro said beyond the biological ageing which most people are aware of, is the social and psychological ageing which results from the way society perceives and treats the older persons.

Ageism is the reason abuse thrives, abuse occur where older persons lose their independence and autonomy, where they are faced with vulnerability and have needs they can not be met because they are excluded from accessing benefits of development; where the system’s exclusion makes older persons vulnerable.

Omokaro noted that the theme: Inclusive Nigeria Campaign Against Ageism, Mobilizing National age-friendly support networks for older persons, draws its fundamental drive from the mission of National Senior Citizens Centre to cause a fundamental positive change in perception, attitude and paradigm about ageing, old age and an inclusive society.

“We collectively must be intentional about stopping abuse of older persons, promoting optimistic view of ageing, mobilizing society in their varied sectors and building networks of support for older persons, to optimize the living conditions of older persons,” She added.

For his part, the President, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Chris Isiguzo said, state governments must domesticate the Older persons right Acts to ensure effective protection of their dignity.

“When you refuse to care for the elderly around you, it’s simple abuse,” Isiguzo added.