NSCC Champions Older Persons’ Rights at 5-Day Celebration
Maryam Aminu
The Director-General of the National Senior Citizens Center (NSCC), Dr. Emem Omokaro has emphasized the need for greater advocacy and policy initiatives to uphold the rights, dignity, and inclusion of older persons in Nigeria.
Speaking during the ongoing 5-day celebration of older persons, organized by the NSCC, Dr. Omokaro called for an end to ageing stereotypes, ageism prejudices and highlighted the integral role older citizens play in national development.
The event held yesterday in Abuja has it Theme “Celebrating Older Persons and the Role They Play in the Community.”
Dr. Omokaro reiterated the NSCC’s efforts to eliminate age-related barriers and create opportunities that allow older persons to participate fully in society.
“Ageism the negative stereotyping and discrimination based on age undermines the rights of older persons to dignity, independence, and participation,” she said.
Dr. Omokaro further noted that older citizens are often viewed as a burden, leading to their exclusion from policies and programs that could otherwise harness their experience and contributions.
“This perception must be corrected,” she stressed. “Older persons are valuable resources with the wisdom, experience, and potential to contribute significantly to the economy, community development, and social care. It’s time we recognize ageing as a development issue, not as a problem.”
Highlighting NSCC’s ongoing work, Dr. Omokaro said the center is actively advocating for the inclusion of older persons in poverty reduction initiatives, health and social care programs, and economic opportunities that benefit all age groups, including the emerging geriatric care economy.
“Celebrating older persons is also celebrating the future of a rapidly ageing population and ensuring that systems are in place for the coming generations of senior citizens,” she added.
Hon. Dr. Bashiru Daudu, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Disabilities, echoed these sentiments.
He called for the urgent passage of the Older Persons’ Rights and Privileges Bill, which seeks to guarantee older persons’ rights and welfare.
Hon. Daudu also acknowledged the NSCC’s pivotal role, saying, “The House of Representatives passed the law that established this center. We remain committed to ensuring it receives the necessary funding and support for its initiatives.”
Also speaking,Dr. Salma Ibrahim Anas, Special Adviser to the President on Health, also addressed the event during the unveiling of the NSCC Goodwill Ambassador for Age-Friendly Services and Elder Justice Advocacy.
She praised the NSCC’s efforts in championing elder justice and urged for more collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society to expand age-friendly services.
As Nigeria celebrates its older citizens, Dr. Omokaro’s call for inclusive policies and recognition of older persons’ contributions to society resonates as a key takeaway from the event. The NSCC’s ongoing efforts mark a significant step towards securing a more inclusive and age-friendly future for Nigeria’s senior citizens.
