The National Senior Citizens Centre is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Health and other relevant agencies in Nigeria, to set up help line to rescue older persons in distress.
The Director General, of the Centre, Emem Omokaro announced the plan in Abuja at a media briefing to mark the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
According to her, the Centre will leverage on existing social, health and economic systems and structures to enhance the capacities, engagement and well-being of all older people.
“Programmes will be developed in conjunction with older people and stakeholder Constituents to eliminate age-based discrimination and exclusion in later life, “the DG said.
The Day which was launched in 2006 provides the opportunity for the global community to appreciate older persons and the contributions they make to enhance the well being of families, communities and the nation.
It is also to call attention to their human rights situations.
For Nigeria, this year is special since Nigeria’s Senior Citizens now have a Focal centre, saddled with the responsibility of enhancing their welfare.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
