Taraba Gov Celebrates International Day Of Older Persons
By Kabiru Jalo
The Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas has commemorated the International Day of Older Persons with senior citizens in Taraba State, assuring them of improved welfare and general well-being.
The occasion which took place at the Catholic Pastoral Center Mile Six Jalingo was attended by the senior citizens from across the state.
Projections indicate that by 2050, the global population of individuals aged 65 and above will exceed 1.6 billion, which will lead to significant challenges and unique opportunities.
These projections according to the Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, will compel the State Government to re-evaluate and potentially transform the social, economic, and healthcare systems of the state to better serve this growing demography.
Represented by the Taraba State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Aminu Abdullahi Alkali, the Governor said the international Day of the Older Persons is particularly significant, as it serves as a powerful reminder of the vital roles senior citizens play in the development of the society.
According to the Governor, the Taraba State Government acknowledges the efforts of the the United Nations, which plays a crucial role in promoting not only the dignity but also the well-being of older persons around the globe.
He therefore assured that the state Government will wholeheartedly support these efforts by putting up policies geared towards promoting the interests and well-being of the elderly people.
He said in Taraba State, the Government takes pride in the meaningful strides it has so far recorded in supporting the senior citizens through the implementation of series of initiatives, including the free education programme aimed at promoting life long learning as well as comprehensive healthcare initiatives designed to enhance quality of lives of the people especially the older persons.
The Taraba State Commissioner for Social Justice and Reintegration, Dr Filister Irarimam Musa in her speech, said the Government through her ministry will come up with strategies of fostering inter-generational dialogue, where the younger generations can learn from the wisdom of their elders, for the betterment of future generations.
She commended Governor Agbu kefas for inclusivity in his administration to better the lots of the older persons and pleaded for the establishment of a recreation center for the elderly persons and vibrant health care centers for the well-being of the senior citizens, including subsidizing their medical bills.
Dr Ayuba Gagare presented a paper on Health talk, Associate Professor Joel Nsofor of the Department of Sociology, Taraba State University, presented his paper on the role of aging in the community while Dr Julius Usman presented a goodwill message from the National Director, Senior Citizens Center, Abuja, commending Governor Agbu Kefas for his commitment in addressing the plight of the elderly persons in the state.
“Aging with Dignity” is the theme of the occasion.
The Senior Citizens presented an award of excellence to the Governor of Taraba State, Dr Agbu Kefas for his humanitarian services to the people.
