The Akwa Ibom State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of senior citizens through policies and programmes aimed at improving their quality of life.
The Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, gave the assurance while receiving the leadership of the National Council of Nigerian Senior Citizens (NACONSEC) on behalf of Governor Umo Eno, on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the ministry’s conference room, Uyo.
Commending the delegation for acknowledging Governor Umo Eno’s developmental strides, Princess Ibanga stated that the administration’s policies and programmes are designed to positively impact the lives of Akwa Ibom people. She cited the establishment of the Senior Citizens Centre as evidence of government’s commitment to the elderly and encouraged senior citizens to utilise the facility.
The Commissioner noted that, in addition to monthly stipends and other support initiatives, senior citizens in the State have been enrolled in the Health Insurance Scheme. She described the elderly as valuable assets whose wisdom and counsel remain critical to the State’s development and assured them of government’s continued support.
Princess Ibanga also urged senior citizens to promote civic participation by encouraging eligible citizens to register and obtain Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), noting that the card serves both as a voting tool and a means of identification.
She lauded the National President of NACONSEC, Amb. Prof. Ekanem Jacob, for expanding the association’s presence to more than 20 states and bringing its inauguration to Akwa Ibom. She equally commended the State Chairman, Elder Okon Udofia, and members of the association for their unity and dedication to advancing the welfare of senior citizens.
Earlier, the State Chairman of NACONSEC, Elder Udofia, said the association was established to promote the welfare and interests of senior citizens, whom he described as “retired but not tired.” He explained that NACONSEC collaborates with government, private organisations and international partners to create opportunities that keep older persons active, productive and engaged.
Udofia commended Governor Umo Eno for prioritising the welfare of senior citizens through the establishment of the Senior Citizens Centre, monthly support for the elderly, payment of outstanding pensions and gratuities, and the provision of free health insurance. He said the initiatives have improved the quality of life of senior citizens and given them a greater sense of belonging.
While reaffirming the association’s support for government programmes, he appealed for sustained collaboration with NACONSEC, greater inclusion of senior citizens in state affairs, and support to strengthen the organisation’s operations in Akwa Ibom. He also invited the Commissioner to attend the association’s forthcoming inauguration as Special Guest of Honour.
Also present at the meeting were the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Eno Akpan; Director of Administration, Mr. Edwin James; Head of Accounts, Dr. Eti-mfon Ndon; Head of Humanitarian Services, Mrs. Unyime Udofia; and other stakeholders of the association.
Information/PR Unit
Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs
June 23, 2026.
