The Coalition of Societies for the Rights of Older Persons in Nigeria, COSROPIN, has called on the Federal Government to put in place programmes and policies that will improve the quality of life and dignity of older persons in the country.
The Niger State Coordinator of COSROPIN , Dr Philemon Ahmed made the call during a Hangout Programme organized for Older Persons in Kwamba, Suleja Local Government Area of the State.
Dr. Ahmed said this can be done through healthy life and living, creation of recreational and daycare centres as well as other welfare packages aimed at ensuring a graceful ageing.
While calling for free National Health Insurance Scheme, NHIS, enrollment for older persons, the Coordinator stated that the hangout programme is part of COSROPIN’s efforts in giving older persons sense of belonging and reducing isolation, depression as well as discrimination among them.
According to him, giving necessary attention and time to the older persons and the most vulnerable are the ultimate act of kindness anyone can embark upon in the society.
While urging Nigerians most especially youths to always love and care for their older persons, the Coordinator reiterated the commitment of COSROPIN towards programmes that would enhance graceful ageing among the elderly.
He also enjoined older persons to always contribute their wealth of knowledge and experience in promoting national peace and development.
In their separate remarks, the Chief of Numbwa – Gbagyi, Chief Demas Yahaya and Waziri Kwamba, Umar Magaji who were part of the participants commended COSROPIN for the hangout programme.
Accirding to them, such programme will help in improving the wellbeing of older persons in country.
Highpoints of the event were games, medical check-up, health talks, cultural performance among others.