A non-governmental organisation, Axios Senior Citizens Foundation, has called for promotion of intergenerational connections to bridge the gap between young and old people.
The Founder of the organisation, Mrs Murjanatu-Usman Habibu, made the call on Monday at a lecture/time-out with some Abuja-based senior citizens.
The lecture/ time-out was organised by the foundation to commemorate the 2023 World Senior Citizens Day.
Intergenerational Connection is purposeful bringing together of different generations in mutually beneficial activities such as mentoring and volunteerism.
Habibu said that there was need to bridge the gap between the young and the old, and also create platforms for meaningful dialogue and mutual learning.
She expressed appreciation for contributions, wisdom and valuable experiences of senior citizens to the Nigerian society, saying that the young had learnt from them.
According to her, it is unfortunate that many senior citizens around the world face challenges such as social isolation, ageism, and inadequate access to healthcare.
She said that the society had a moral obligation to address the challenges and fill senior citizens’ lives with love, care and support.
Habibu said that the foundation was working toward creating inclusive environments in which senior citizens would feel valued, respected and appreciated.
“Today, August 21, 2023, is the day set aside by the United Nations as World Senior Citizens Day.
“We have, therefore, decided to come together to acknowledge the remarkable accomplishments and the unyielding spirit of our senior citizens who have played an instrumental role in shaping the world we live in today.
“You have witnessed and participated in countless transformative events, some of which have redefined our history.
“Your resilience, perseverance and dedication continue to inspire generations to come.
“As we celebrate this day, we reflect on the significance of cherishing and respecting our senior citizens who are the guardians of our traditions, the custodians of our heritage, and the pillars of our communities,” she said.
Habibu thanked the staff of the foundation, volunteers and other individuals for efforts to ensure the welfare and happiness of senior citizens.
Mr Moses Okolo, a member of the foundation’s senior citizens club, who gave a lecture on grand parenting/parenting challenges and the way forward, encouraged the elders to be up and doing for their children.
He advised parents to stop comparing their children with others, saying that such could discourage the children from improving.
He also advised parents to create time for their children and impart values in them.
Mr Kayode Fagbemi, a former Director, Active Ageing and Support Services, National Senior Citizens Centre, advised the senior citizens to regularly engage in exercise for improved health.
The senior citizens were made to interact with one another.
