The Editor
The wife of the Anambra State governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has called for a renewed and stronger commitment to the implementation of protective laws for senior citizens to ensure their safety, dignity and end to their abuse nationwide.
Soludo added that families, communities and institutions must create an environment where older people feel valued, heard and protected.
The Anambra first lady pointed out that the primary objective is to transition from merely acknowledging elder abuse to actively implementing robust prevention strategies, strengthening protective laws, that sanction the maltreatment of older adults.
She stated this in a press statement released on Monday as the world marks ‘World Elder Abuse Awareness Day’ observed globally on June 15.
She said, “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.
“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.
“As families, communities, and institutions, we must create an environment where older people feel valued, heard, and protected.
“Let’s use this day as a reminder that how we treat our elders reflects the strength of our humanity.
“Together, let’s champion kindness, inclusion, and support for our senior citizens, ensuring they enjoy the dignity and quality of life they truly deserve.”
The ‘World Elder Abuse Awareness Day’ is observed globally on June 15 and established by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse in 2006 and officially recognised by the UN in 2011.
The day aims to unite communities, organisations, and governments in opposing the mistreatment of older adults.
The 2026 theme for the campaign is “Beyond Awareness: Making Elder Abuse Prevention Work.”
The primary objective is to transition from merely acknowledging elder abuse to actively implementing robust prevention strategies, strengthening protective laws, and ensuring seniors’ safety and dignity worldwide.
