Reps Step Up Effort To Protect Vulnerable Older Citizens
•By Admin
ABUJA – THE House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development on Wednesday held a public hearing on House Bill 2098, a proposed legislation seeking to establish and safeguard specific rights for older persons in Nigeria.
Declaring the hearing open, Chairperson of the Committee, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, said the bill represents a major step toward ensuring health, economic security, and social protection for senior citizens who have contributed immensely to the growth and development of the nation.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, PhD, represented at the event, lawmakers, stakeholders from various sectors, and elderly Nigerians were in attendance.
Ogbara described the proposed law as “a milestone in our collective effort to safeguard the welfare of older persons,” stressing that society has a responsibility to give back to those who have spent their lives building the country.
“Older persons often encounter unique challenges that impact their health, economic stability, and social participation. House Bill 2098 seeks to address these concerns by creating a comprehensive framework that guarantees their rights and welfare,” she said.
According to her, the bill prioritises access to quality healthcare and sustainable economic relief, while strengthening the protection of social and civic rights to ensure that older persons remain active, empowered, and valued members of society.
The Committee Chair noted that the presence of advocates, healthcare professionals, social workers, community leaders, and civil society organisations at the hearing underscores the urgency and national importance of the proposed legislation.
“What we are doing today is not only for the elderly among us but for every one of us, whether young or old. Aging is a journey we all hope to take, and the protections we put in place now will serve generations to come,” she added.
Ogbara urged participants to make thoughtful contributions that will help shape a strong and effective law capable of addressing the real needs of older Nigerians.
She reminded stakeholders that “the true measure of any society lies in how it treats its most vulnerable members,” insisting that the public hearing is another step toward ensuring dignity, security, and inclusion for the country’s elderly population.
“Nigeria First, today and always,” she said.
•INDEPENDENTNG.