Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians to ensure that older persons are not abandoned, ignored, or excluded from family and community life. She emphasized the need to protect their dignity and welfare, stressing that senior citizens are custodians of invaluable wisdom and experience. Mrs. Tinubu made the call in her message to mark the 2026 International Day of Older Persons, observed on October 1.
The theme of this year's commemoration, “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives,” serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to ensure that older persons remain healthy, productive, and dignified. Mrs. Tinubu noted that the commemoration of the 36th anniversary of the international day is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of senior citizens to families and communities.
Mrs. Tinubu called on families and communities across the country to value the wisdom and experience of senior citizens and provide them with meaningful opportunities to participate in society. She also emphasized the need to strengthen social security systems to support them, as life expectancy increases. According to her, senior citizens must never be abandoned, ignored, or excluded; rather, they should be supported and given opportunities to participate in family and community life.
The First Lady urged Nigerians to learn from the experiences of older persons and continue to value their counsel. She noted the importance of creating an environment that enables them to age with dignity and remain relevant in society. Mrs. Tinubu emphasized that recognizing the contributions of senior citizens and safeguarding their well-being is crucial.
Mrs. Tinubu's message is in line with the country's efforts to address the needs of older persons. Recently, the House of Representatives member, Ibeh, unveiled a blueprint that promises monthly salaries for the elderly and youth jobs. This initiative aims to provide financial support and create opportunities for young people and senior citizens.
The First Lady's call to action is also reflected in her recent appointment as the Grand Patron of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy Golf. This position will enable her to promote the welfare of older persons and encourage their participation in sports and other activities. Mrs. Tinubu wished older persons across the country a happy International Day of Older Persons.
As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to commemorate the International Day of Older Persons, the First Lady's message serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and empowering elderly citizens. With the theme “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives,” Nigerians are encouraged to rethink their approach to supporting older persons and create a society that values and includes them.
Key points
- First Lady Oluremi Tinubu urges Nigerians to protect and empower elderly citizens.
- The 2026 International Day of Older Persons is observed on October 1 with the theme “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives.”
- Mrs. Tinubu calls for strengthened social security systems to support older persons.
