The Federal Government has announced the establishment of 40 dedicated desks for the care of senior citizens across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
This initiative aims to address the diverse needs of aging individuals, recognizing that no single agency can effectively manage all aspects of elderly care.
Dr. Emem Omokaro, Director-General of the National Senior Citizens Center (NSCC), made this announcement during an inaugural training program for Quality Assurance Assessors in Abuja.
She emphasized the importance of collaboration among different agencies, stating that the NSCC has worked diligently to understand the mandates of relevant organizations and has formed partnerships through Memoranda of Understanding.
While specific MDAs were not disclosed, Dr. Omokaro highlighted the government's commitment to creating a Care Quality Assurance System for Nigeria.
This system will establish national benchmarks and minimum standards for the accreditation of care settings, ensuring that older citizens receive appropriate and high-quality care.
Dr. Omokaro stated, “No one person, no single ministry can handle aging alone because what they do is different statutorily.” She underscored the need for standards in elder care, asserting that older persons deserve care that is appropriate, acceptable, and available.
The NSCC is also focused on training professionals in geriatric social care, as Dr. Omokaro noted that the skills required for effective elder care necessitate proper training. She pointed out that while many healthcare professionals possess knowledge, certification in assessing skills is crucial for quality assurance.
In her address at the Humanitarian Service Diamond Awards 2024, Dr. Omokaro addressed the societal attitudes towards aging, stating that older persons are often viewed negatively and overlooked in humanitarian efforts.
