The Speaker of Nigeria's House of Representatives has made a powerful appeal for enhanced legal protection and improved welfare measures for the country's elderly population, emphasizing that Nigeria must adopt global standards in caring for senior citizens.
Legislative Push for Elderly Rights
During a significant public hearing on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, in Abuja, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen Abbas declared that proposed legislation is essential for protecting the dignity and well-being of older Nigerians who have made substantial contributions to national development.
The Speaker, represented by the Chief Whip Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, addressed stakeholders at the hearing for the Bill for an Act to Provide Certain Rights for Older Persons. He stressed that Nigeria cannot function in isolation and must learn from developed nations that have established robust legal frameworks ensuring quality healthcare, social security, and civic protections for senior citizens.
Moral Obligation to Senior Citizens
Abbas praised the bill's sponsor, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, who chairs the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, describing her as a passionate legislator. He noted her initiative would "serve as a fallback for our elders who have paid their dues when they were young."
Ogbara, in her welcome remarks, explained that Bill HB 2098 aims to address the distinctive health, economic, and social challenges faced by older persons nationwide. She emphasized that the legislation represents a moral obligation to give back to senior citizens who have sacrificed for the nation.
"This bill is designed to provide essential rights for older persons. It is our collective responsibility to ensure they receive the dignity, respect and support they deserve," Ogbara stated.
Comprehensive Protection Framework
The proposed law seeks to guarantee:
- Access to quality healthcare services
- Financial security measures
- Protection of social and civic rights
- Mechanisms to keep older persons active in society
Both leaders called for substantial contributions from stakeholders, including advocates, healthcare professionals, and community leaders. They emphasized that the quality of input received would directly influence the creation of a comprehensive and effective legal framework.
Ogbara powerfully noted that "The measure of a society is how it treats its most vulnerable population. What we are doing today is for ourselves, because every one of us will grow old."
The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing Nigeria's interests and thanked participants for supporting this crucial effort to improve senior citizen welfare across the nation.
