The Renewed Hope for the Elderly (RHE) has issued a powerful call for comprehensive reforms aimed at improving the lives of Nigeria’s senior citizens. The advocacy group is pushing for expanded pension schemes, enhanced healthcare services, and broader social protection programs, asserting that older Nigerians deserve to live with dignity after years of dedicated service to the nation.
Welfare as a National Priority
During a world press briefing held in Abuja on Saturday, Dr. Bode Olanipekun, Director-General and National Coordinator of RHE, underscored that the welfare of elderly Nigerians must be elevated to a national priority, moving beyond the realm of mere charity. He implored the Federal Government to intensify existing reforms in pension administration and healthcare delivery. This, he explained, would guarantee that retirees achieve financial security and have unrestricted access to high-quality medical services.
“We are encouraged by ongoing conversations and policy directions aimed at improving pension administration and reforming retirement welfare to ensure that senior citizens enjoy greater financial security after years of dedicated service,” Dr. Olanipekun stated.
Expanding Healthcare and Social Support Systems
Beyond financial security, RHE strongly advocates for expanded access to specialized geriatric care, robust preventive healthcare initiatives, and age-friendly medical services tailored specifically for older Nigerians. The organisation also champions the establishment of modern elderly care centres and community-based support systems, designed to uphold family values while safeguarding the dignity of senior citizens.
“We welcome initiatives designed to strengthen healthcare services for older persons, including specialised geriatric care, preventive healthcare, wellness programmes and expanded access to age-friendly medical services,” he added.
Acknowledging Progress Amidst Persistent Challenges
Dr. Olanipekun commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its commitment, particularly for strengthening the National Senior Citizens Centre and introducing policies geared towards enhancing the welfare of older persons. He also lauded the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her initiatives promoting gardening, subsistence farming, and environmentally friendly activities among the elderly, noting their positive impact on income, food security, physical activity, mental wellbeing, and active ageing.
Despite these commendable efforts, the RHE coordinator lamented the pervasive challenges many elderly Nigerians continue to face. He highlighted ongoing issues of neglect, inadequate social protection, poor healthcare, isolation, and severe economic hardship post-retirement. Dr. Olanipekun issued a stark warning: “Unfortunately, for too long, many of these distinguished Nigerians have experienced neglect… A nation that fails to honour its elderly gradually weakens its own moral foundation.”
Holistic Demands for a Dignified Future
To address these systemic issues, RHE’s demands extend beyond pensions and healthcare. The group called for:
- Age-friendly housing solutions
- Enhanced financial inclusion programs for retirees
- Digital literacy training to empower older persons
- Post-retirement entrepreneurship opportunities
- Stronger legal protections against elder abuse and discrimination
Reaffirming RHE’s unwavering commitment, Dr. Olanipekun pledged to collaborate closely with government institutions, civil society organizations, and development partners. The ultimate goal is to ensure that every Nigerian can anticipate retirement with optimism and security, rather than apprehension and fear.