By Stephanie Osugo
Eldercare in Nigeria is rapidly becoming a matter of national urgency. Traditionally, elderly Nigerians have relied on family members for support, often rotating among children or relatives who provided care and companionship. However, societal and economic changes are eroding this support system, raising questions about Nigeria’s readiness to address the needs of its ageing population.
Are there adequate policies and frameworks to ensure their wellbeing? Unfortunately, current realities paint a grim picture—elderly pensioners collapse in queues, basic healthcare access remains limited, and dedicated eldercare programs are virtually non-existent.
Most Nigerian elderly are retirees or informal sector workers who have spent decades in labor-intensive roles. Many now suffer from chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and impaired vision or hearing. Yet, access to specialized geriatric care remains alarmingly scarce.
Nigeria’s doctor-to-patient ratio stands at 1:10,000—far from the WHO-recommended 1:500—and this is for the general population. For the elderly, the challenge is even more acute. High out-of-pocket healthcare costs push many toward unorthodox remedies or spiritual alternatives. Those who do see a doctor often cannot afford medications or follow-up care.
To address this challenge, targeted geriatric health insurance should be introduced at local government or senatorial levels. Health insurance provides a sustainable model for delivering care by pooling resources through premiums and offering access to subsidized services. While the Federal Government’s GIFSHIP (Group, Individual and Family Social Health Insurance Programme) is a step in the right direction, much more can be done.
A shining example is the Ijesaland Geriatric Centre in Osun State—a purpose-built facility developed through a collaborative community effort. Supported by local leaders, diaspora contributions, and healthcare experts, the centre serves six local governments and addresses a critical healthcare need for the elderly population in the region.
The vision originated from a dissertation by Dr. Oladipupo Fakoya and evolved into a fully functional geriatric hospital, thanks to a successful ₦1 billion fundraising campaign and support from the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex. The centre boasts a general outpatient clinic, operating theatre, laboratory, pharmacy, canteen, as well as dental and ophthalmology units.
Importantly, the Ijesaland community developed an insurance scheme for indigent elders, registering over 3,500 patients to date. Services are significantly subsidized due to ongoing donations, volunteerism, and a strong sense of community ownership.
The Ijesaland initiative demonstrates what is possible when communities and governments collaborate with purpose. It provides a replicable model for eldercare that aligns with the National Health Insurance Authority’s vision of Universal Health Coverage.
Eldercare is not just a healthcare issue—it is a reflection of our collective values. Nigeria must prioritize the wellbeing of its elderly citizens through clear policy, sustainable financing, and dedicated infrastructure. With the right strategy and political will, replicating models like the Ijesaland Geriatric Centre nationwide is achievable—and urgently needed.
• Stephanie Osugo writes from Abeokuta