The President of Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA) Mrs Ngozi Aneke has called for greater respect, protection and inclusion of older persons in Nigerian society, urging families and communities to prioritise their welfare and dignity.
Mrs Aneke, made the call during a visit to the Amazing Grace Foundation Home to commemorate the International Day of Older Persons.
Aneke, who is also the wife of the Chief of the Air Staff, said the visit was part of NAFOWA’s commitment to its motto, “Service to Humanity,” and its continued support for vulnerable members of society.
She said NAFOWA was delighted to join the international community in recognising older persons and appreciating their contributions to families, communities and national development.
According to her, older persons have contributed immensely to the growth and development of society and deserve love, care, respect and dignity in their later years.
“We are here to give back to our older citizens. We are here to tell you that we love you all and appreciate you for all your contributions to our families, communities and society,” Aneke said.
She stressed the need to protect older persons from abuse and discrimination, while ensuring that their rights are upheld and that they remain included in society.
Aneke also appealed to Nigerians to take greater responsibility for the welfare of their ageing parents and relatives, noting that caring for older persons should not be left solely to homes or institutions.
She said NAFOWA would continue to support initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of women, children, youths and older persons as part of its humanitarian activities.
“We need to love them, care for them and show them that they matter to us,” she said, urging Nigerians to remember the sacrifices and contributions of older members of their families.
The NAFOWA president also noted that the celebration coincided with Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, describing the occasion as an opportunity to celebrate both the nation and older citizens who had contributed to its development.
“We are here to celebrate them and tell them that we love them. They have given so much to the development of Nigeria, so it is time for us to give back to them as well,” she said.
Responding to the gesture, the Matron of the Amazing Grace Foundation Home, Mrs Chinwe Obegolu, emphasised the importance of sustained care and support for older persons.
Obegolu called for stronger protection of the rights, dignity and welfare of older citizens, stressing that their contributions to families and society should not be forgotten.
She appreciated NAFOWA for identifying with the residents of the home and for using the occasion to draw attention to the needs and welfare of older persons.
As part of the celebration, NAFOWA presented food items and other essential supplies to the residents of the Amazing Grace Foundation Home.
The visit formed part of activities marking the International Day of Older Persons and reflected NAFOWA’s continued humanitarian interventions in support of vulnerable groups and communities.
