The National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC) has urged Nigerians to prioritize quality healthcare and basic amenities for older citizens, moving beyond mere palliatives. Director-General, Dr. Emem Omokaro, made this appeal at a capacity enhancement workshop for state commissioners and directors of social welfare in Abuja.
Omokaro emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in perception, focusing on social care and healthcare needs of senior citizens. She acknowledged efforts in humanitarian interventions and palliative distribution but stressed the importance of a holistic approach to ageing programming. Ageing should be viewed as an economic sub-sector generating revenue, dignity, and strengthening human rights for older populations.
The NSCC aims to build collaborations and share its vision for a multi-sectoral approach, making challenges of older persons a holistic development concern. United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Country Representative, Dr. Gifty Addico, expressed support for NSCCs initiatives, promoting health and quality of life for older persons. This includes access to healthcare services, social support networks, and active participation in society.
The workshop focused on domesticating the NSCC Act and National Action Plan on Ageing, ensuring a comprehensive approach to caring for elderly Nigerians.
