Abia Govt celebrates 2025 World Elders Abuse Day, advocates protection for senior citizens
By: Imo Thomas -Umuahia.
Abia state government, through the wife of the state Governor, Mrs Priscilla Chidinma Otti, has called on stakeholders, government agencies, community leaders, families, and individuals to unite in tackling elder abuse by ensuring that senior citizens across the state live in dignity and with the care they deserve.
Mrs. Otti made this passionate appeal at the Banquet Hall, Government House Umuahia, on Wednesday, during the 2025 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event, with the theme “Addressing Abuse of Older Adults in Abia State Through Data and Action.” which was hosted by the Office of the Wife of the Governor in collaboration with the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection.
Abia ‘sa’s first lad stated that Elders are the backbone of society and described elders abuse as a pervasive societal ill that manifests in various forms, such as physical, emotional, financial abuse, and neglect.
“Our Elders loved us unconditionally, raised us with wisdom, and shared their visions with us. We owe them not only our gratitude but a strong system of care and protection,” she stated.
She commended Governor Alex Otti for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of senior citizens, particularly in ensuring prompt payment of pensions and expanding access to quality healthcare services for the Elderly.
She urged elderly citizens to take advantage of government-provided healthcare facilities by going for regular medical checkups.
In her goodwill message, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Blessing Felix, commended Mrs. Otti’s sustained commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of senior citizens.
She affirmed her ministry’s resolve to partner with the Office of the Wife of the Governor and other stakeholders to combat Elder abuse in the state.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the National Senior Citizens Centre in Abia State, Mazi Nwaka Otti, lauded Governor Alex Otti for signing into law the Senior Citizens Welfare Bill and for making the well-being of Elders a policy priority.
In her vote of thanks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Traditional Rulers and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mrs. Magdalene Ugoanusi, expressed appreciation to the Governor for institutionalizing Elderly care in the state and prayed for God’s continued blessings on the administration.
The event featured free medical checkups for senior citizens, distribution of care packages, and a road awareness walk in Umuahia led by the Abia first lady.
