The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has signed the Edo State Senior Citizens’ Policy which will prioritize better welfare for the elderly in the state.
Addressing the elderly at an event held at the Baptist Convention Ground in Benin City, to mark the 2022 National Day for Senior Citizens, the Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Social Development and Humanitarian Affairs, Mrs. Ifueko Alufohai said the celebration highlights the impact of ageing population in the society.
The event featured physical exercises and medical screening for the elderly organised by the state government.
She said, “The Edo State Senior Citizens Policy was approved by Mr. Governor with a directive that modalities be immediately put in place to ensure its smooth implementation.
“We are happy to announce that this directive is being followed and with support from our partners, we are sure that its implementation is in view. We look forward to more opportunities to celebrate as the implementation of the state policy for senior citizens commences.
According to her, “The commemoration of the National Day of Senior Citizens is aimed at highlighting the impact of an ageing population on our society. It seeks to arouse critical stakeholders’ interest on the need to ensure people can grow old with dignity, while raising public consciousness in issues affecting the aged, which is critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of “leaving no one behind”.
She noted that the event “is aimed at celebrating and honoring the contributions of these older individuals to the society through the years. While they may seem to be requiring our assistance and care at this stage of their lives
“We identify their immense contribution to our collective development as individuals, families, corporate bodies, systems and institutions. It is their sacrifice made that now builds together,” she added.
The permanent secretary reiterated the commitment of the state government to improving the welfare of the senior citizens, noting, “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.
