Respite For The Aged, As Fashola Hands Over Home

For too long, aged people in Lagos State, Nigeria, popularly called ‘Senior Citizens’ have been neglected.  These people expended their energy in serving the state but they got nothing to show for their long years of service.

Respite, however, came their way when the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola gave them an independence gift by handing over the rehabilitated Old People’s Home in Yaba area of the state.

The senior citizens were elated as they took to the floor and displaying that they had not forgotten their dance steps.  They felt so young again as they thrilled the people around with a dance performance which will be remembered for a while.

“You can see that some of us have been dancing here, we happy about the facility, more importantly, it is another opportunity for us to celebrate and also exercise our body,” said 76-year old Chief Olurokpo Oluyeba.

The old man advised the government to establish an Elderly People’s Ministry, so that some of the senior citizens that are still  strong can use their experience to  address the challenges confronting them.

According to Fashola, who was represented by his Deputy, Princess Sarah Sosan, people in the society should ensure that the elderly are cared for, adding that well-meaning Lagosians could partner with the government to help “our elders  live happily so that they will look back and be happy with the nation and the society they served with their strength.

“Plans are afoot to establish Day Care Centres for the elderly where they can stay during the day time and return home after their children or family members have returned home.”

The governor’s wife, Abimbola Fashola also harped on the need to adequately care for the aged in the society, stressing that by handing over the Home to them, government had demonstrated its commitment to the elderly.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth and Social development, Dr. Dolapo Badru, described the government as responsive to the yearnings and aspirations of the people and thus committed to the well being of the elderly.