The Abia State Government has reiterated its dedication to protecting the rights, dignity, and overall wellbeing of elderly citizens across the state.
The assurance was given as part of activities marking the 2026 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
Speaking on Tuesday, during a press briefing on the outcome of the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti at Government House, Umuahia, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, emphasized the administration’s commitment to social protection and inclusive governance.
According to him, the state’s participation in the annual observance reflects the government’s resolve to promote the welfare of older persons and ensure they are not left behind in development initiatives.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, clarified misconceptions surrounding the Abia State Senior Citizens Law No. 4 of 2025.
She explained that the law does not provide monthly salaries or financial stipends for all citizens aged 60 years and above.
“While individuals aged 60 and above are recognized as senior citizens under the law, its primary objective is to guarantee access to healthcare services and welfare-related interventions rather than regular cash payments,” she said.
Mrs. Felix stressed that the legislation is intended to support the wellbeing of elderly persons through targeted social protection programmes and healthcare benefits.
She also acknowledged the efforts of the Wife of the Governor, whose interventions have continued to provide assistance to indigent senior citizens across the state.
The Commissioner further disclosed that the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, in partnership with the Office of the Wife of the Governor, joined the global community in commemorating the day, which is dedicated to raising awareness about elder abuse, neglect, exploitation, and social exclusion.
She explained that World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly to draw attention to the challenges confronting older persons and encourage actions that promote their safety and wellbeing.
Highlighting this year’s theme, “Beyond Awareness: Making Elder Abuse Prevention Work,” Mrs. Felix said it calls on governments, institutions, communities, and families to move beyond discussions and implement practical measures that safeguard the rights, dignity, and security of elderly people.
She outlined several steps already taken by the Abia State Government, including the enactment of the Abia State Senior Citizens Law No. 4 of 2025, which was signed into law by Governor Alex Otti.
The State Executive Council meeting also reviewed the implementation of the government’s centralized transport policy in Umuahia.
The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, announced that the state had commenced phased enforcement of the new transport system, with transport operators being relocated to the Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal.
“The government engaged transport unions and stakeholders through a series of consultations before beginning enforcement, ensuring that concerns raised by operators were adequately addressed,” he said.
He noted that operations had already commenced at the terminal, with informal transport operators and unions gradually moving into the facility as part of the phased implementation process.
Also speaking, Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, explained that the initiative was not designed to deprive anyone of their means of livelihood but rather to create a more organized, efficient and secure transport system.
“Operators have been encouraged to participate in the new arrangement, which provides transparent loading procedures and improved facilities for both drivers and passengers,” he said.
Contributing, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, stated that the centralized transport system would help reduce traffic congestion, eliminate indiscriminate loading points, enhance security and improve operational efficiency.
He added that the policy would ultimately benefit both transport operators and commuters through a more structured and regulated transport environment.
(The Whistler)
