Abia Reaffirms Commitment to Elderly Welfare, Clarifies Senior Citizens Law for Residents Aged 60 and Above
From Mark Chukwu, Umuahia
The Abia State Government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the rights, welfare, and dignity of elderly citizens across the state while clarifying misconceptions surrounding the implementation of the Abia State Senior Citizens Law No. 4 of 2025.
The clarification was made by the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, who explained that the law was established to provide healthcare services, social protection, and welfare support for elderly persons, particularly indigent and vulnerable residents aged 60 years and above.
Speaking on the provisions of the law, Mrs. Felix debunked widespread claims that the legislation guarantees monthly stipends for all elderly residents in Abia State. She emphasized that such interpretations are inaccurate and do not reflect the true intent of the law.
According to her, the government has already set up a committee responsible for developing a comprehensive policy framework that will guide the effective implementation of the law and ensure that support reaches the intended beneficiaries.
Mrs. Felix further noted that the state government, in collaboration with the Office of the Wife of the Governor, has introduced several intervention programmes aimed at improving the lives of elderly citizens, especially those battling health challenges and economic hardship.
Meanwhile, the Abia State Government reaffirmed its determination to prioritize the welfare of senior citizens as part of its broader social protection agenda.
Briefing journalists at the Government House in Umuahia following the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting held last Tuesday, the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Okey Kanu, disclosed that Abia is among the few states in Nigeria with a dedicated legal framework specifically designed to protect and support elderly persons.
He noted that the administration remains committed to ensuring that senior citizens enjoy better access to healthcare, social services, and other welfare programmes that will improve their quality of life.
The government urged residents to rely on verified information regarding the Senior Citizens Law and assured the public that additional guidelines would be released once the implementation framework is finalized.
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The Abia State Senior Citizens Law No. 4 of 2025 represents a significant step toward strengthening social protection policies and promoting the wellbeing, inclusion, and dignity of older persons across the state.
