Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has called for greater protection of elderly persons against abuse, neglect, discrimination and exploitation in society.
Soludo, also the Founder of Healthy Living initiative, made the call on Monday in a message to mark the 2026 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is marked every June 15 to recognize and address elder abuse as both a human rights violation and a growing policy challenge in ageing societies.
This year’s commemoration had the theme – “Beyond Awareness: Makin
She said the day provided an opportunity to reaffirm society’s commitment to protecting the dignity, rights and well-being of senior citizens.
According to her, elderly men and women are custodians of wisdom, culture and values and deserve to age with respect, care and security.
“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,” she said.
Soludo urged families, communities and institutions to create an environment where older persons feel valued, heard and protected.
She noted that the treatment of elderly persons reflected the strength of society’s humanity and compassion.
“Let us use this day as a reminder that how we treat our elders reflects the strength of our humanity.
“Together, let us champion kindness, inclusion and support for our senior citizens, ensuring they enjoy the dignity and quality of life they truly deserve,” she said.
The governor’s wife reiterated the need for collective efforts to safeguard the welfare of older persons and promote a society where they can live with dignity and fulfilment.
