The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has called for renewed commitment to the implementation of laws and policies aimed at protecting senior citizens from abuse, neglect and exploitation.
Soludo made the appeal in a statement issued on Monday to commemorate the 2026 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, observed globally on June 15.
She stressed the need for stronger enforcement of protective laws and more effective measures to safeguard the dignity, rights and well-being of older persons across Nigeria.
According to her, elderly citizens remain custodians of society’s wisdom, culture and values and deserve to live in safety, respect and dignity.
“As we observe World Elder Abuse Awareness Day today, we stand in renewed solidarity with our senior citizens and reaffirm our commitment to protecting their dignity, rights, and well-being,” she stated.
The Anambra First Lady noted that older people should be free from all forms of abuse, discrimination, neglect and exploitation, urging families, communities and institutions to create environments where they feel valued, heard and protected.
“Our elderly men and women are custodians of wisdom, culture, and values. They deserve to age with respect, care, and security, free from neglect, discrimination, exploitation, or any form of abuse,” she said.
Soludo emphasized that the responsibility of protecting senior citizens should not rest solely on governments but must involve collective action from individuals, families, communities and organisations.
READ ALSO: Protect Our Children: Soludo’s Wife Launches Statewide Measles-Rubella Drive
“As families, communities, and institutions, we must create an environment where older people feel valued, heard, and protected,” she added.
She further urged Nigerians to use the occasion to reflect on the treatment of older persons, noting that society’s regard for its elderly population is a reflection of its humanity.
“Let us use this day as a reminder that how we treat our elders reflects the strength of our humanity,” she said.
The governor’s wife also called for greater advocacy, inclusion and support systems that would guarantee senior citizens the quality of life they deserve.
“Together, let us champion kindness, inclusion, and support for our senior citizens, ensuring they enjoy the dignity and quality of life they truly deserve,” she stated.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was established in 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and was officially recognised by the United Nations in 2011.
The annual observance seeks to raise awareness about the abuse, neglect and mistreatment of older persons while encouraging governments, organisations and communities to strengthen protective measures.
The theme for the 2026 commemoration is “Beyond Awareness: Making Elder Abuse Prevention Work.”
The campaign focuses on moving beyond awareness by promoting practical prevention strategies, strengthening legal protections and ensuring the safety, dignity and well-being of older adults around the world.