Dr. Emem Omokaro, the Director-General of the National Senior Citizens Centre, emphasized the importance of viewing the needs of older people as more than just short-term solutions like palliatives.

She stressed the significance of ensuring that they have access to quality healthcare and basic amenities.

This appeal was made during a workshop in Abuja aimed at enhancing the capacity of state commissioners and Directors of Social Welfare in understanding and implementing the NSCC Act and National Action Plan on Ageing.

Dr. Omokaro urged all stakeholders to prioritize providing social care for senior citizens, with a particular emphasis on meeting their healthcare requirements.

She highlighted the necessity for a change in mindset among Nigerians regarding the perception of ageing. The workshop served as a platform to advocate for a more comprehensive and sustainable approach to addressing the needs of older individuals in the country.

She further stated, ” Our mandate is to improve the life and well-being of older persons, and I am very mindful of your various efforts in humanitarian interventions.

”Especially the distribution of palliatives in recent times, the campaigns for domestication of the Child Rights Act in States, your increasing commitment to equity and inclusion of the older population.

”So, Please open your minds for these discussions because at the end of the day, we should be able to shift and look at the older person’s needs and programmes beyond Palliatives.”

She pointed out that the process of aging should be considered an economic sector capable of not only generating revenue and enhancing dignity but also upholding the human rights of the elderly population in the nation.