The wife of Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti
The wife of Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti has led other stakeholders in advocacy walk in Umuahia, to commemorates the year 2025 World Elders Abuse Awareness Day.
Mrs. Otti in her speech says the theme “Addressing Abuse of Older Adults in Abia State: through data and action” is indeed very timely, pointing out that our elders have built our communities, shared their wisdom, and loved us unconditionally and now it’s our turn to give back, listen, and support them.
She explained that elder abuse is a pervasive issue that affects not only the individual but also their families and communities. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, financial, neglect and called on families to prioritize the care, health and welfare of the elderly against abuse.
She also expressed that Abia State under Governor Otti recognizes the importance of leveraging data to inform its strategies, emphasizing that by understanding the scope and nature of elder abuse, the state can develop targeted interventions to prevent and respond to abuse effectively.
According to her, “since inception, the state government have implemented various initiatives to support our elderly population which include, but not limited to commitment to pensioners’ welfare, access to quality healthcare and notably, the Governor recently signed 18 new executive bills into law, including the Abia State Senior Citizens Law 2025, which provide care and support, for elderly citizens to live with dignity” she said.
These initiatives and policies, she maintained demonstrate the Abia State Government’s efforts to support its citizens, including the elderly, and promote overall well-being.
However, we acknowledge that more needs to be done.
Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Blessing Ngozi Felix
Contributing, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Blessing Ngozi Felix, noted that elder abuse, in its various forms, remains a significant problem worldwide and here in Abia State our indigent elders are particularly vulnerable due to limited resources, potential isolation, and increased dependence.
Many face neglect, exploitation, and outright abuse, actions that undermine their dignity and quality of life.
Addressing this challenge, Mrs. Felix said, requires a coordinated and sustained effort to raise awareness, provide comprehensive support services, and empower our older persons to protect themselves against discrimination and prejudice based on age.
According to her, “today’s event, which follows an impactful advocacy walk within Umuahia led by the Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, underscores the seriousness with which Abia State Government under the pragmatic leadership of Dr. Alex Otti, treat this critical issue by ensuring that our beloved senior citizens live a dignified life” she said.
Meanwhile, the Chairman, National Senior Citizen Centre in Abia State, Mazi Otti Nwaka, could not hide his feelings.
He commended Governor Otti for his exceptional leadership disposition adding that we have a government in Abia that recognizes the senior citizens and is ready to do more.
The bill signed will play a crucial role in protecting the elderly from abuse and ensure they receive the care they deserved.
