Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has urged governments at all levels to place the welfare of senior citizens higher on the national agenda, insisting that older persons deserve protection, dignity and meaningful social support.
He argued that caring for the elderly should be regarded as “a moral and legal obligation”, rather than an act of charity and called for policies that guarantee the wellbeing of senior citizens and safeguard their rights.
Governor Otti stated this on Wednesday while delivering the keynote address at the 60th birthday symposium of Apostle Bolaji Oluwayanmife Akinyemi, Convener of The Apostolic Roundtable, President of Voice of His Word Ministries and Chairman, Board of Trustees of Project Victory Call Initiative (PVC Naija), in Lagos.
The event, held at the NAFOWA Hall, Children’s Park, Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, also featured the public presentation of Akinyemi’s latest book, Global Leadership Code: Donald J. Trump As A Case Study, and drew an audience of religious leaders, public officials and professionals from across the country.
Addressing participants on the theme, “Life at 60: Senior Citizens, Government’s Role and the Citizens’ Pact”, Governor Otti said nations make greater progress when governments and citizens work together in an atmosphere of accountability, compassion and shared responsibility.
The Governor noted that development cannot be sustained without leadership that prioritises people-centred policies and citizens who remain actively committed to the common good.
He described Apostle Akinyemi as “a man of courage, integrity and selfless service”, whose decades of commitment to Christian ministry, leadership development and national discourse have earned him respect across different sectors.
Governor Otti commended the celebrant for choosing to mark his diamond jubilee with intellectual engagement and conversations centred on national growth rather than elaborate festivities.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of senior citizens, citing the Abia State Senior Citizens Centre Law No. 4 of 2025, which he said provides a comprehensive legal framework for the protection, care and social inclusion of residents aged 60 years and above.
He explained that the legislation guarantees access to healthcare, welfare services, emergency assistance and protection against abuse, adding that the mechanisms required for its implementation are already in place.
According to the governor, investments by his administration in healthcare, education and road infrastructure are intended not only to improve economic opportunities for younger generations but also to ensure that retired citizens enjoy security, dignity and quality healthcare.
He maintained that governments must adopt long-term policies capable of improving the quality of life of both present and future generations.
Governor Otti congratulated Apostle Akinyemi on attaining the age of 60, describing the milestone as a celebration of purpose, resilience and impactful leadership.
He urged Nigerians to embrace constructive dialogue, patriotism and collective responsibility, saying that national progress would depend largely on citizens’ willingness to work together in pursuit of the country’s shared aspirations.
In his remarks, Pastor Goke Poka of House on the Rock Ministries stressed the importance of loyalty and nation-building, saying that genuine loyalty should extend beyond personal interests to include commitment to God, society and the nation’s collective advancement.
He encouraged Nigerians to cultivate values that promote unity, integrity and selfless service.
The event featured goodwill messages, prayers and tributes from family members, friends and associates with many describing the celebrant as a committed minister, mentor and advocate of transformational leadership.
Highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of Akinyemi’s new book, Global Leadership Code: Donald J. Trump As A Case Study, by Governor Otti and other guests, followed by the ceremonial cutting of the birthday cake.
