The First Lady of Nigeria and the wife of the Anambra State Governor have called on Nigerians to show greater respect, care, and protection for senior citizens, warning against the growing neglect and abuse of the elderly in society.

The appeal was made during a sensitisation event on elder welfare, where stakeholders emphasized the importance of strengthening family and community support systems for ageing persons across the country.

The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, stressed that elderly citizens deserve dignity after years of service to their families and the nation. She urged Nigerians to avoid all forms of abuse, including neglect, financial exploitation, and emotional mistreatment of older persons.

Similarly, the wife of the Anambra State Governor, Nonye Soludo, called for renewed cultural values that prioritize family responsibility and compassion for the aged. She noted that traditional African society places high value on elders, and said such values must not be allowed to fade.

The event also highlighted the need for stronger social protection systems, improved healthcare access for the elderly, and community-based support structures to address their growing needs.

Participants at the gathering urged government agencies, civil society organizations, and families to collaborate in tackling elder abuse and ensuring that senior citizens live with dignity, security, and adequate care.

The call comes amid rising concerns from advocacy groups over increasing cases of neglect and mistreatment of elderly persons in various parts of the country.