Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Abia State Government has taken a major step toward enforcing its newly enacted Senior Citizens Law with the production of a draft policy manual to guide its implementation.
Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this at Government House, Umuahia, while briefing journalists on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting, presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
He said the draft, prepared by the State Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, provides clear guidelines and modalities for executing the Senior Citizens Law No. 4 of 2025, amid concerns over widespread misconceptions about its provisions.
According to Kanu, the law is designed to promote the welfare, dignity, security, and overall wellbeing of elderly persons, rather than offering direct cash handouts.
He outlined key components of the policy to include healthcare support, housing assistance, social insurance, nutritional aid, and programmes to enhance the mental and psychological wellbeing of senior citizens.
“The policy document clarifies the intent of the law and addresses misleading interpretations. It is meant to ensure proper implementation and public understanding,” he said.
Kanu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable elderly residents through structured social protection programmes.
Speaking, Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, revealed that a nine-member committee set up by the governor is finalising the draft, which is expected to be ready for public review by April.
She added that plans are underway to establish a permanent Office for Senior Citizens Affairs and constitute a governing board to drive the law’s implementation.
Felix noted that even before the law was enacted, relevant ministries and the Office of the First Lady had been collaborating on initiatives to support the elderly across the state.
