Dr. Uzoukwa(right) in a handshake with leader of the team.
THE National Senior Citizens Center (NSCC), Abia State chapter, has proposed legislative action and a Joint Technical Committee on Ageing to address challenges faced by senior citizens in the state.
Mazi Otti Nwaka, Co-Chair/Facilitator of the NSCC Abia State Stakeholders Consultative Forum on Ageing, led his team on Wednesday to a courtesy visit to Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Public Affairs.
During the visit, Nwaka revealed that the bill for establishing the Abia State Senior Citizens Center has been drafted and awaits transmission to the Abia State House of Assembly by Governor Alex Otti.
While awaiting legislative action, Nwaka’s team proposed establishing a Technical Committee on Ageing to promote senior citizens’ well-being and active participation in society.
The committee aims to improve healthcare, social security, education, employment, and community engagement for older adults.
Nwaka emphasized that the proposal aligns with federal policies, specifically the National Senior Citizen Centre (NSCC) Act 2017, which mandates states to provide geriatric social services.
Dr. Uzoukwa in his response commended the Abia NSCC chapter for its commitment to senior citizens’ welfare and pledged to bring their proposals to the Governor’s attention.
Other team members present included Dr. Onyeri Kelechi, Vice Chair – Health Insurances and Social Care; Dr. Uvere Kanu, member; and Ugoeze Angela Ifeanacho, Ph.D, member.