Independent
The OB Lulu-Briggs Foundation has called for greater attention to the basic needs of older persons in the country as the World marked the United Nations International Day of Older Persons on October 1, 2021.
Mrs Ineba Tongkam, the Foundation’s Coordinator of Programmes, made the call during a media programme commemorating this year’s International Day of Older Persons.
Noting the 2021 theme for the day- “Digital Equity for All Ages,” underscored the growing and central importance of digital literacy around the world, she also stated that the disruptive effects of COVID-19 on the global economy and in particular household incomes have created unique challenges for vulnerable older persons who are grappling with subsistence needs.
She called on governments and development partners in Nigeria to pay more attention to the basic needs of older persons as an integral part of their strategic responses to vulnerable persons impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The most current data projects that Africa’s older population – 60 years and above – will grow faster than any other region of the world.
In 2020, Nigeria had the largest number of older persons in Africa (10.9 million). This is projected to triple to about 33.2 million by 2050, which will be the 11th largest older population in the world. This large cohort of elders will require specialized health, economic and social care which must be planned for today.
Mentioning the Foundation’s ongoing 20th year anniversary, she stated that, “Since September 2001 when the Foundation was established, we have taken care of poor and neglected older persons providing them with comprehensive healthcare, monthly feeding and stipends also on a monthly basis. 600 poor, sick and neglected elders have benefitted to date.
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