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The Social Network Research Group of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, has raised concerns over the inadequacy of formal and institutional support systems for elderly people in Nigeria, warning that gaps in policy, accessibility and psychological care leave older citizens increasingly vulnerable.
The group made this known during a research dissemination programme on Social Support Networks and Quality of Life of Octogenarians in Nigeria, held at St. John Grammar School Hall, Oke-Atan, Ile-Ife.
Principal Investigator and host, Professor Bonke Adepeju Omoteso, explained that the study, conducted between 2021 and 2023, examined the quality of life of elderly citizens across four states—Osun, Oyo, Benue and Imo. The research was funded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).
According to Professor Omoteso, the project involved 11 researchers: nine from Obafemi Awolowo University, one from Adamawa State University and another from Imo State University.
“The study focuses on the kind of social support our elderly people need to live meaningful and dignified lives in their later years,” she said. “Our findings show that in Nigeria, little attention is paid to healthy living among the elderly, and there is virtually no structured social support system for them.”
She noted that while family-based support remains the backbone of octogenarians’ quality of life in Nigeria, formal and institutional frameworks are largely inadequate.
“Psychological vulnerability, accessibility barriers and weak policy implementation place octogenarians at heightened risk, especially as traditional family structures continue to erode,” she added.
Professor Omoteso recommended stronger family and community-based care systems, alongside targeted, well-funded policy interventions, to safeguard the dignity and well-being of Nigeria’s oldest citizens. She also called for improved access to healthcare services, economic empowerment through income-generating activities, greater community engagement and the development of elderly-friendly infrastructure.
Another member of the research team, Dr Akinjide Akintomide of Obafemi Awolowo University, identified significant policy and implementation gaps in Nigeria’s approach to elderly care.
“Although a National Policy on Ageing exists, its implementation is weak, underfunded and largely generic, failing to address the specific needs of octogenarians,” he said. “Critical gaps persist in geriatric healthcare, income security, housing, legal protection and data systems. Existing interventions are fragmented, urban-centred and heavily reliant on non-governmental and faith-based organisations, raising serious concerns about sustainability and equity.”
Addressing participants—most of whom were elderly—a medical practitioner, Dr Seye Okunola, urged them to prioritise their health through regular medical check-ups and healthy living.
“As elderly people, we must maintain clean environments, relate well with others and go for regular medical check-ups,” he said. “This helps us understand our health status early and prevent more serious illnesses.”
Similarly, Dr. Kolawole Aliu, Dr. Omoyemiju Michael Adeniyi and Mr. Seye Adesokun emphasised the importance of healthy eating habits, physical activity and exercise, as well as access to clean water and proper sanitation for elderly people. They expressed concern over social and economic challenges such as isolation, poverty, neglect, financial dependence and limited access to essential resources, which continue to undermine the quality of life of older Nigerians.
The event concluded with a renewed call for inclusive policies and sustained societal commitment to ensure that Nigeria’s elderly population lives with dignity, security and purpose.
