The Kwara State government is set to launch a state-of-the-art geriatric centre dedicated to delivering comprehensive care for the elderly population within the state.
This initiative is also expected to generate numerous job opportunities for young people in the region.
Dr. Mariam Imam, the Commissioner for Social Development, revealed these plans during the “National Older Persons Day” event held in Ilorin, the state capital, which honored the elderly for their invaluable contributions to Kwara’s progress.
The new facility is slated to be established at the Amayo Rehabilitation Home, situated in the Ifelodun local government area.
“The governor is actively advancing this project. It presents a chance to employ many youths who will be responsible for elderly care, thereby fostering employment. This also highlights an important facet of nursing focused on senior care. Beyond professional duties, it’s a humanitarian effort that nurtures compassion and empathy for our elders, reminding us all that one day we will be in their position,” she explained.
Themed “Showcasing Kwara State Indigenous Crafts and Award Presentation,” the celebration was organized in collaboration with the Brafem Geriatric Foundation. Dr. Imam emphasized that the event aimed to affirm the value of the elderly, promote their health and wellbeing, and highlight their traditional arts and crafts.
“It also serves to honor retired civil servants and elderly individuals still actively contributing to society for their outstanding service,” she added.
Dr. Imam further noted that through the state’s Social Investment Scheme, thousands of senior citizens have benefited from financial empowerment programs.
“At the national level, the Renewed Hope Initiative led by the First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, continues to support the elderly with ongoing empowerment efforts rather than one-off gestures,” she stated.
During the event, 99-year-old Dr. Ajolore, a respected senior citizen, praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for the consistent monthly pension payments but appealed for the settlement of all outstanding gratuity arrears owed to Kwara pensioners.
Mrs. Beatrice Oyegbade, Executive Director of the Brafem Geriatric Foundation and Kwara State Coordinator on Aging Affairs, called on both state and federal governments, as well as relevant partners, to intensify their support for initiatives benefiting older adults.
