Doro Reaffirms Commitment to Elderly Welfare, Promises Stronger Social Protection for Older Nigerians
By Pan Afric Reporters
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to improving the welfare of older persons through enhanced social protection programmes, expanded healthcare access, caregiver training, and stronger institutional support aimed at ensuring dignity and quality living for senior citizens across Nigeria.
The assurance was given by the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard M. Doro, during a meeting with members of the Coalition of Societies for the Rights of Older Persons in Nigeria (COSROPIN) at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
The disclosure was contained in a press release issued by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction and signed by Mrs. Janet McDickson, Director of Information and Public Relations.
Speaking during the courtesy visit led by COSROPIN Chairman, Senator Dr. Eze D. Ajoku, the Minister assured the delegation that all requests and recommendations presented would receive careful consideration.
“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,” Dr. Doro stated.
The Minister revealed that discussions were already underway with international development partners to strengthen elderly care systems in Nigeria. He disclosed that recent engagements in New York focused on building local capacity for specialized care services for older persons, particularly those living with dementia and other age-related health conditions.
According to him, proposals are being reviewed to improve the training and capacity of caregivers responsible for supporting elderly citizens across the country.
On the proposed Rights and Privileges of Older Persons Bill currently before the National Assembly, Dr. Doro pledged the Ministry’s support, assuring stakeholders that efforts would be made to facilitate its advancement through appropriate channels.
The Minister also acknowledged concerns over healthcare access for retirees and vulnerable senior citizens, promising to engage the Federal Ministry of Health on possible strategies to expand health insurance coverage for retired civil servants and older persons in the informal sector.
Welcoming the National Policy on Ageing presented by COSROPIN, Dr. Doro described policies protecting senior citizens as investments in the nation’s future.
“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 said.
He further announced plans to establish a technical team that would strengthen collaboration between the Ministry, the National Senior Citizens Centre, COSROPIN and other relevant stakeholders to drive reforms aimed at improving the welfare of older Nigerians.
The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s social protection architecture, reducing poverty and creating sustainable pathways to resilience for vulnerable populations.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, commended COSROPIN for its advocacy efforts and assured the delegation of the Ministry’s commitment to promoting the welfare, dignity and inclusion of older persons.
Despite his demanding schedule, the Permanent Secretary noted that the Minister considered it important to engage directly with representatives of older citizens to better understand their concerns and expectations.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Senator Dr. Eze D. Ajoku congratulated Dr. Doro on his appointment and described it as timely and deserving.
Ajoku explained that COSROPIN serves as an umbrella body representing over 170 civil society organisations, faith-based groups, retirees’ associations and community-based organisations dedicated to advancing the rights and welfare of older persons in Nigeria.
He highlighted the coalition’s role in the establishment of the National Senior Citizens Centre and the development of the National Policy on Ageing, while calling for stronger government support for the passage of the Rights and Privileges of Older Persons Bill.
The coalition also advocated improved healthcare services, wider health insurance coverage, stronger social protection mechanisms and increased government interventions targeted at senior citizens.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing commitment to deeper collaboration aimed at enhancing the welfare, dignity and quality of life of older persons across Nigeria.
Officials present at the meeting included the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya; Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Janet McDickson; Director of Social Development, Mr. Valentine Ezulu; senior ministry officials; and members of COSROPIN.
