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The Kwara State Government has unveiled plans to establish a geriatric centre as part of efforts to institutionalize elderly care and create employment opportunities in the state.
The move was announced during the celebration of the 2025 National Older Persons Day held on Wednesday at the Banquet Hall, opposite Government House, Ilorin.
The event, organized by the Ministry of Social Development in collaboration with the Brafem Geriatric Foundation, also featured the unveiling of Kwara State Indigenous Crafts and Awards, a platform designed to celebrate the creativity and resilience of the state’s elderly artisans.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Commissioner for Social Development, Hon. Mariam Innah Fatimah-Imam, said society must adapt to changing times by creating structured systems to cater to the aged.
“The world is evolving, and people are becoming more engaged with work and business. It’s not neglect, but reality that many may not have time to cater to their parents,” she said.
“We are developing a system where trained caregivers will look after our elderly. A proposal for a geriatric centre is before the governor, and it will be sited at the Amoyo Rehabilitation Home. The project will create jobs and strengthen nursing care in the state.”
The Commissioner added that the day was set aside to celebrate the state’s senior citizens — their health, experiences, and contributions to community life — while encouraging younger generations to value indigenous craftsmanship.
Delivering a goodwill message, Princess Risikat Omolara Yusuff, Chairperson, Board of Trustees of the OneFoundation and the Institute for Humanitarian Studies and Social Development, commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his “transformational leadership and people-oriented governance.”
She described the governor’s approach as a model of inclusiveness that recognizes both the elderly and the youth.
“We are ready to complement the government’s efforts at all levels,” she said. “Our collaboration with youth and international organizations like IOM and SOS Nigeria has yielded success stories in employability and entrepreneurship.
‘’We are proud to align this energy with the state’s vision for social development.”
In her keynote address, Mrs. Beatrice Oyegbade, Executive Director of the Brafem Geriatric Foundation and Kwara State Coordinator on Aging Affairs, recounted the foundation’s 16-year journey of service to the elderly, highlighting achievements in community advocacy, medical outreach, caregiver training, and social support.
According to her, “Brafem Foundation has reached all 16 local government areas, providing free drugs, food, and counseling to senior citizens.
“We have also trained health workers in geriatric care and strengthened collaboration with both state and federal governments.”
However, she noted that challenges remain, including poor funding, lack of infrastructure, and absence of a comprehensive state policy on aging.
Mrs. Oyegbade called for the establishment of a Geriatric Social Care Unit in Kwara State and the provision of mobility resources like ambulances to enhance emergency response for the elderly.
“Our elders are the custodians of history and wisdom,” she said. “Let us build a Kwara where every older person lives with dignity and purpose.”
The event drew dignitaries from across the state, including local government chairmen, humanitarian advocates, and traditional leaders.
It concluded with a display of locally made crafts by elderly artisans and awards recognizing outstanding contributions to community service.
