The Abia State Government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of senior citizens, declaring that old age should never become a reason for neglect, abuse, or abandonment.
The government made the statement during the commemoration of the 2026 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day held in Umuahia. Speaking at the event, the wife of the governor, represented by Mrs. Adaeze Emetu, stressed that elderly persons deserve dignity, quality healthcare, and adequate social protection.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Ngozi Blessing Felix, explained that the state’s Senior Citizens Law was enacted to improve the welfare and healthcare of older persons, not to provide a universal monthly cash allowance.
The Abia State Government further called on families, communities, and relevant stakeholders to work together to ensure that senior citizens are respected, protected, and supported to live healthy and dignified lives.
Hauwa Umar Mohammed
