By Ahmed Ubandoma

Dr Emem Omokaro, the Director-General, National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC), has lauded President Bola Tinubu for approving the African Charter on the rights of older persons in Nigeria.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) presided over by Tinubu, approved the ratification of the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights which included the Rights of Older persons in Nigeria.

Omokaro, in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja issued to newsmen by Mr Omini Oden, head of Corporate Affairs of NSCC said, with the ratification, Nigeria becomes the 13th member-state in the African region to affirm its obligations.

According to her, the act would strengthen the protection of the rights of older persons through a binding regional legal instrument.

”This ratification is in tandem with Nigerian government’s commitment to accelerate inclusion of older persons into its National Social Development, Health and Economic Security systems.

”To build age friendly society where older persons have right to dignity, security, participation, long-term care as well as access to Justice and equity across generations” she said.

Omokaro said, Nigeria would continue to play its part towards implementation of the UN Charter on the rights of older persons in Nigeria.

”Nigeria as a member of the Bureau of the United Nations Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing is working to support the United Nations General Assembly.

”Especially its mandate to determine the best mechanism including a new internationally binding instrument and the desirability to support UN in strengthening its regional provisions.

”Nigeria is unequivocal on its support to the UN Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing processes and the rights of older persons” she said.

Omokaro, commended the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu for taking NSCC’s request to the FEC for consideration and approval. (NAN)

Edited by Yakubu Uba/Ekemini Ladejobi