Edo First Lady Champions Improved Welfare for Senior Citizens

The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has reiterated the state government’s commitment to improving the welfare of senior citizens.

Mrs. Anani made this known while receiving the National President of the Elderly Care Alliance of Nigeria (ECAN), Chief Eddy Ogbomo, during a courtesy visit to Government House, Benin City.

She disclosed that discussions were ongoing with relevant agencies and stakeholders to secure support for the establishment of an elderly care facility in the state.

The First lady observed that while African culture places the responsibility of caring for elderly parents on their children, many senior citizens still require specialized care and support.

According to her, Governor Monday Okpebholo’s compassionate leadership places great value on the welfare of the elderly, assuring that the state government will continue to prioritize their wellbeing.

She emphasized that persons aged 60 years and above deserve quality care, dignity, and opportunities for social interaction.

“An elderly care home will provide a safe environment where senior citizens can interact with their peers, receive proper attention, and enjoy a better quality of life. We also need more sensitisation and public awareness on elderly care, as well as policies that will protect the rights and welfare of older persons,” she added.

Earlier, the National President of the Elderly Care Allowance of Nigeria, Chief Eddy Ogbomo, explained that the association was established in 2018 during the administration of former Governor of Edo State, Senator Adams Oshiomhole to advocate for the welfare and protection of elderly persons.

He noted that senior citizens deserve adequate care and support from both government and society, appealing for stronger collaboration with the Edo State Government.

Chief Ogbomo disclosed that the association currently operates an elderly care home located within the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR), which was donated by a philanthropist. He, however, appealed for additional support to expand elderly care services across the state.

He further called for the establishment of a standard elderly care home in Edo State, noting that many elderly persons require assistive devices such as wheelchairs and other healthcare support.

“Our motto is ‘Ageing Gracefully.’ We want Edo State to have a befitting elderly care home where senior citizens can live comfortably, receive proper care, and age with dignity,” he said.