Nigeria: RMAFC, NSCC call for bold institutional reforms to secure dignified aging

Omeiza Bilal

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s aging and healthcare sector converged today at the Dr. M. B. Shehu Auditorium, Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) in Abuja, for the First Healthy Ageing Symposium, Exposition and Awards, to promote structured, inclusive, and dignified aging systems for senior citizens.

The symposium was organised by the Centre for African American Research Studies (CAARS) in partnership with DCL Africa and the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA). It brought together some policymakers, researchers, development partners, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to deliberate on the theme: “Ageing with Dignity and Working with Purpose.”

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Chairman, Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu OFR, the Federal Commissioner representing Kwara State, Hon. Ismail Mohammed Agaka, welcomed participants and commended the organizers for the choice of theme, noting that it could not have come at a better time.

He described the programme as a life-changing initiative and stated that its collaboration with respected government and civil society organisations underscores the growing recognition of aging as a national priority. According to him, “The decision to organise this important life-changing programme with these very important institutions speaks to the acceptance your Centre enjoys and the value proposition attributed to your work.”

Highlighting the increasing financial burden of healthcare on ordinary Nigerians, the Chairman noted that the cost of accessing quality healthcare has gone far beyond the income of the average citizen, which according to him which has negatively affected life expectancy. He said, “This situation has plagued the state of health of most Nigerians and getting reliable information required to prevent sickness and ailments would mean a lot of savings to us all.”

While acknowledging federal interventions such as the National Health Insurance Scheme, he emphasized the need for sustainable, grassroots-oriented programmes like this symposium. He added that the Commission’s decision to host the event demonstrates its commitment to a healthy and productive workforce.

In her keynote address, Dr. Omobolanle Akinyemi-Obe, Director General of the National Senior Citizens Center (NSCC)—represented by Dr. Ahmed Tijjani Ajayi—urged policymakers to act urgently to address the growing institutional gaps affecting older citizens. “Too many older persons face poverty, isolation, neglect, and a profound loss of dignity, especially in rural areas.  Dignified aging must not be precarious; it is not a privilege—it is a right.” He posited

He identified seven key pillars needed to build a responsive aging system in Nigeria: legal and policy frameworks, sustainable financing, community-based institutional infrastructure, geriatric workforce development, technology, and social inclusion. “Societies that honour their elders build stronger communities, healthier families, and more compassionate nations,” Dr.Tijani Ajayi said.

According to him, the NSCC is already implementing several initiatives including the Geriatric Social Care Community Extension Support Services, medical housing programs, and assistive device distribution, aimed at improving the quality of life for older persons. He also revealed that the agency was working with the National Assembly and the Institute of Justice to harmonize elder protection laws and develop a national ageing policy that is both inclusive and enforceable.

Dr. Ajayi also announced the launch of a digital literacy program where youth volunteers train elderly citizens in basic technology use and sanitation/environmental projects where older persons serve as ambassadors for healthy communities. “We must change the narrative; older people are not burdens—they are national assets,” he said.

The event featured several technical paper presentations by resource persons such as: Dr. Maimouna Diop Ly, Dr. Mories Atoke and Dr. Hanem Abdelraouf.