The Edo State Senior Citizens’ Policy, which aims to improve the welfare of the state’s elderly population, was signed by Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State.
Speaking to the elderly during a celebration of the 2022 National Day for Senior Citizens at the Baptist Convention Ground in Benin City, Mrs. Ifueko Alufohai, Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Social Development and Humanitarian Affairs, stated that the occasion underscores the effects of an aging population on society.
The state government organized a medical screening and physical exercise program for the elderly.
“Mr. Governor approved the Edo State Senior Citizens Policy and ordered that procedures be put in place right away to guarantee its seamless implementation,” she stated.
“With the help of our partners, we are confident that this directive will be implemented as intended. We are pleased to report that it is being followed. With the start of the senior citizen state policy’s implementation, we anticipate more reasons to celebrate.
“The National Day of Senior Citizens is intended to highlight the impact of an ageing population on our society. It aims to increase public awareness of issues affecting the elderly and spark the interest of key stakeholders in the need to ensure that people can age with dignity, both of which are essential to meeting the Sustainable Development Goal of “leaving no one behind.” she claims.
The purpose of the event, according to her, is to “celebrate and honor the contributions made by these older individuals to society over the years.” While they may seem to be requiring our assistance and care at this stage of their lives
“As individuals, families, corporate entities, systems, and institutions, we recognize their enormous contribution to our collective development. They made a sacrifice that allows us to build together now,” she added.
“Our commitments to the welfare of senior citizens has propelled our actions to ensuring that we have a legal framework that addresses various needs of older persons,” stated the permanent secretary, reiterating the state government’s commitment to improving the welfare of senior citizens.
