The Kwara State Government has announced plans to establish a geriatric centre aimed at institutionalising elderly care and expanding employment opportunities across the state.
The disclosure was made on Wednesday during the 2025 National Older Persons’ Day celebration held at the Banquet Hall, Ilorin. The event was organised by the Ministry of Social Development in partnership with the Brafem Geriatric Foundation.
The occasion also featured the unveiling of the Kwara Indigenous Crafts and Awards, a new initiative designed to celebrate the creativity, resilience, and craftsmanship of elderly artisans in the state.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Social Development, Mariam Fatimah-Imam, said the government’s proposed geriatric centre — which will be located at the Amoyo Rehabilitation Home — is part of ongoing efforts to create a sustainable structure for the welfare of senior citizens.
“A proposal for a geriatric centre is already before His Excellency, the Governor. Once approved, it will serve as a model for quality elderly care and provide employment opportunities, especially in the area of nursing and social work,” she said.
Fatimah-Imam emphasised that the welfare of older persons remains a critical part of the administration’s social development agenda, noting that society must evolve to support its ageing population.
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She urged young people to take pride in traditional craftsmanship and learn from the values and skills of their elders.
The celebration, which brought together senior citizens from across the state, featured cultural displays, awards presentations, and exhibitions of indigenous crafts produced by elderly artisans.
