Dr. Oluebube A. Chukwu has lauded Governor Alex Otti for what he described as a “historic and compassionate act” following the signing of the Senior Citizens Bill into law in Abia State. The groundbreaking legislation guarantees substantial welfare benefits for all senior citizens aged 60 and above, including a free monthly salary, access to comprehensive medical care at no cost, and other life-long social entitlements.
In a statement made available to newsmen, Dr. Chukwu hailed the governor's action as not only timely but morally exemplary. “Governor Otti has again demonstrated that governance can be anchored on empathy, justice, and foresight. This law will bring a profound sigh of relief to our elderly population and the many dependents who rely on them,” he said.
According to the provisions of the bill, every eligible senior citizen in the state will automatically begin to receive monthly stipends from the government as part of a broader social welfare architecture. The law also mandates that public health institutions offer free medical services to this demographic, a move experts say could redefine elderly care in the country.
Chukwu, a vocal advocate ardent supporter Dr. Alex Otti equity and inclusive governance, described the bill as a transformative achievement in Governor Otti’s administration. “This is a significant leap forward in people-centered leadership. For the first time, our elders are being treated not as burdens but as dignified contributors to our collective heritage,” he noted.
The signing ceremony, which took place at the Government House in Umuahia, attracted widespread acclaim from civil society organizations, elder rights groups, and traditional leaders. Many hailed the legislation as visionary, describing it as a benchmark for other states to emulate in addressing the long-neglected welfare of senior citizens.
Dr. Chukwu further called on stakeholders across political, religious, and civic spaces to lend their support to the seamless implementation of the law. He emphasized that its full impact would ripple across generations, alleviating economic strain on families and promoting intergenerational harmony.
As implementation begins, expectations are high that Abia State will blaze the trail in elderly welfare reform. For Dr. Chukwu and others who have championed dignity and care for the aged, the law symbolizes a new era of responsible and compassionate governance in Nigeria.
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