UN: Abuja Celebrates International Day Of Older Persons

Global Knights Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to advocacy, care, and protection of vulnerable persons, marked the United Nations International Day of the Older Persons in Abuja by
bringing together senior citizens and Gen Z.

The commemorative event, which took place on Wednesday, October 1st, 2025, at the Secretariat of the IVLP Alumni Association in Wuse 2, revolved around this year’s global theme, “Older Persons Driving Local and Global Actions: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being, Our Rights.”

It was an interactive event which brought together professionals across various fields, media personalities, policy advocates, civil society activists, retirees, students and other stakeholders.

Ngozi John-Uyah, Executive Director of Global Knights Foundation, in her welcome address, set the tone for the event, drawing from her own experiences. Ms. John-Uyah, who recently retired as a Director from the National Gallery of Art, signposted the shabby way the system treats men and women who retire after upwards of 35 years of diligent and committed service to the nation.

A keynote presentation was made by Dr. Musa Bawa, a mentalist and professional mind coach, who spoke on the challenges of old age and how to care for the well-being of the elderly.

Dr Bawa, who is the founder and Chief Happiness Officer of Halal Wellness Club, also revealed strategies to keep the elderly persons mentally and physically active, and help mitigate some of the challenges of old age.

Following his engaging presentation, a panel of eminent persons were selected to kickstart discussions on the crucial role older persons play in society, their challenges, and how to protect their wellbeing.

Members of the panel included Mr. Fred Ohwahwa – President, Just Friends Club of Nigeria; Dr. Hajara Njidda Amoni – Director of Administration, Made in Nigeria Project Office, Abuja, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation; Dr Umma Umar Mohammed -Manager, Programmes, NTA headquarters; and Mr. Akpausoh Akpausoh- National General Secretary, RATTAWU.

The session was moderated by Tajudeen Suleiman, managing editor of The Whistler newspaper and television.

The panellists identified several challenges facing older persons, which include loneliness, lack of proper medical care, and poor finances. The panellists also lamented the government’s inability to make the welfare of the elderly a priority in policy formulation.

Suggestions were made on how the elderly could also drive change in society and ensure their own well-being. These include preparing adequately for life after retirement while still in active service; pursuing new aspirations to realise hidden potentials and engaging in new activities.

There was an intergenerational connect session where attendees from the Gen Z and other age groups were called to recount their experiences with older persons in their lives. The session brought laughter and tears, and showed the crucial role the elderly play in our society.