Dennis Erezi
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has advocated for improved access to housing and shelter for older persons.
The commission made the call at the 14th session of the Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing (OEWGA) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
Dr. Tony Ojukwu, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, emphasized Nigeria’s proactive measures in addressing the needs of its elderly population.
Dr. Ojukwu disclosed that the NHRC plans to launch a comprehensive, multi-indicator survey targeting the specific needs of older persons.
According to him, the survey in collaboration with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the National Population Commission (NPC) aims to gather detailed data to shape policies and interventions that will directly benefit the elderly.
This initiative builds on the significant progress already made in collecting national data on the rights of older persons, particularly in accessibility and infrastructure, Ojukwu said.
He said while the Nigeria Living Standards Survey (NLSS) 2019 provided valuable insights, the upcoming targeted survey aims to fill existing gaps and offer a more precise understanding of the challenges older Nigerians face.
Ojukwu said beyond data collection, the NHRC has established robust mechanisms to address rights violations.
Empowered under Section 6 of its mandate, the NHRC investigates complaints related to human rights violations, including those affecting older persons.
He said, “To bolster this effort, a dedicated department for vulnerable groups has been created within the NHRC, staffed with specially trained personnel to handle complaints from older persons.”
The Executive secretary called for an internationally binding document to protect older persons’ rights, urging the UN General Assembly to expedite this initiative.
He said Nigeria’s judicial system, with courts across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, is well-equipped to handle human rights cases, ensuring older persons have access to legal avenues for justice.
He advocated for the full and meaningful participation of older individuals and their representative organizations in this process, ensuring that any international framework developed truly reflects their needs.
Obinna Nwakonye, the commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, on Thursday said the initiative marks a significant advancement in Nigeria’s commitment to human rights and the well-being of its elderly population.
