Abia State Enacts Senior Citizens Law 2025 to Enhance Elderly Welfare
The Abia State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, has detailed the rationale behind the enactment of the state's Senior Citizens Law of 2025, emphasizing that the government has already developed an implementation manual to guide its execution. Kanu made these remarks following the weekly meeting of the State Executive Council, highlighting that the law establishes a structured framework to foster participation, security, independence, dignity, and self-fulfilment for senior citizens across the state.
Comprehensive Policy Framework for Elderly Needs
According to Commissioner Kanu, the legislation is designed to address the holistic needs of elderly persons, including their health, mental, and psychological well-being. He clarified that the law is not intended as a direct cash payment or "cash-out" programme for the elderly. Instead, it serves as a comprehensive policy framework that integrates various programmes and interventions aimed at improving the welfare of senior citizens.
Kanu outlined several key initiatives under the law, such as:
- Celebration of the International Day of Older Persons to recognize their contributions.
- Housing support for the aged, as well as indigent and displaced persons.
- Health support tailored to vulnerable elderly citizens.
- Financial assistance and social insurance programmes.
- Food and nutritional support specifically designed for older persons.
He assured that the Abia State Government remains steadfast in its commitment to the full and effective implementation of this law, alongside other policy initiatives designed to guarantee social protection for vulnerable elderly citizens throughout the state.
Pre-existing Collaborations and Future Plans
Commissioner Kanu also noted that even prior to the formal enactment of the Senior Citizens Law, collaborative efforts were already underway. The office of the governor's wife, along with key ministries including Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Health, and Women Affairs, had been working with other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to implement programmes supporting senior citizens.
In a related development, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix, provided further insights. She disclosed that Governor Alex Otti has approved the constitution of a nine-member committee tasked with developing the policy framework to guide the implementation of the law. Felix indicated that the policy draft will be made public and is expected to be finalized by April 2026.
Additionally, Felix announced plans to establish a permanent office for Senior Citizens and to constitute a board that will oversee the implementation of the law, ensuring its effective administration and long-term sustainability.
