Reps Speaker Calls for Stronger Legal Protection, Improved Welfare for Elderly Nigerians

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has called for enhanced legal safeguards and better welfare provisions for elderly Nigerians, stressing the need for the country to adopt global best practices in caring for senior citizens.

Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja at a public hearing on the Bill for an Act to Provide Certain Rights for Older Persons, Abbas, represented by the Chief Whip, Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, said the legislation is essential to protecting the dignity and well-being of elderly citizens who have contributed significantly to national development.

He praised the bill’s sponsor, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, describing her as a committed lawmaker whose initiative would “serve as support for our elders who have paid their dues in their younger years.”

Abbas noted that Nigeria must learn from countries with strong legal frameworks that ensure access to quality healthcare, social security, and civic rights for older citizens.

“As a nation, we cannot operate in isolation. We must borrow from developed nations on how they care for their citizens, particularly the elderly,” he said. “This bill aims to provide privileges, protections and a legal structure that ensures the safety and welfare of our elderly population.”

He urged participants at the hearing to make meaningful contributions to help the Committee produce a balanced and effective report.

Hon. Ogbara, who chairs the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, said the bill (HB 2098) seeks to address the unique health, economic and social challenges facing older persons nationwide. She described the legislation as part of a moral duty to “give back” to senior citizens for their sacrifices.

“This bill is designed to provide essential rights for older persons. It is our collective responsibility to ensure they receive the dignity, respect and support they deserve,” she said.

Ogbara added that the proposed law would help guarantee access to healthcare, financial stability, and civic protections, ensuring that older persons remain active and valued members of society.

She encouraged stakeholders, including advocates, healthcare experts and community leaders, to contribute to shaping a comprehensive and impactful legal framework.

“The measure of a society is how it treats its most vulnerable population. What we are doing today is ultimately for ourselves because everyone will grow old,” she noted.

Ogbara reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to prioritising national interest and thanked participants for supporting efforts to improve the welfare of elderly Nigerians.