The Clean Hearts Support Foundation held a pivotal meeting today with the Director-General of the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC).
This meeting indicates the urgent need to address the welfare of senior citizens and aged groups across Nigeria.
The meeting, which began with a welcome address by the Foundation’s National Coordinator, Hon. Uchenna Okorie, served as a platform to explore a potential partnership between the two organizations.
Hon. Okorie, who was accompanied by a four-member team, detailed the Foundation’s mission, emphasizing its focus on improving the quality of life for senior citizens.
“Senior citizens have fallen into the vulnerable category in society,” Hon. Okorie noted.
He highlighted the need for collaborations to tackle pressing issues such as financial dependency on family support, which remains a major source of income for many households in Nigeria.
Following his remarks, the Director of Administration, Abdulhamid Modibo pointed out that senior citizens are somewhat more neglected than any other groups across Nigeria.
He emphasized that while the economy has been tough, the aged group have faced tougher circumstances.
During the session, the Foundation’s Head of Training, Zainab Zubairu Atta elaborated on the organization’s initiatives, including training programs for senior citizens and the certification of professional caregivers.
“Older persons are valuable members of our society, deserving respect, dignity, and care.”
We recognize their contributions to Nigeria’s growth and development. We commit to ensuring their well-being, safety, and inclusion through services”. She stressed.
She also emphasized the importance of sponsorships, medical outreach programs, and existing partnerships with the Ministry of Health.
In response, the DG of the NSCC highlighted ongoing projects aimed at enhancing the lives of senior citizens.
She noted the Centre’s commitment to providing long-term care through established guidelines and procedures.
The DG also stressed the importance of dignity in all initiatives targeted at the elderly population.
“We have partnered with universities to enhance training for caregivers,” the DG stated, emphasizing the necessity for skilled personnel in the care economy.
She added that the NSCC has made strides in quality assurance, providing essential equipment, employment opportunities, and support systems to improve the care of aged individuals.
The DG also called for increased advocacy and capacity-building efforts to strengthen partnerships and ensure sustainable impacts on senior citizens’ welfare.
The meeting concluded with both parties acknowledging the need for collaborative strategies to address the challenges faced by elderly Nigerians and enhance the care economy in the nation.
Chinedum Anayo