A professor of Social Gerontology, Gender and Development Studies at Lagos State University, Olanrewaju Ajiboye, has expressed concern over the rising risk of poverty among Nigeria’s ageing population, warning that millions of elderly citizens could face economic hardship in the coming decades.
Ajiboye spoke on Tuesday while delivering his inaugural lecture titled “That We May Age Gracefully: A Social Gerontologist’s X-ray of Later Life”.
He noted that Nigeria’s elderly population is growing rapidly, but the country lacks the social protection systems required to support older citizens.
According to him, the number of Nigerians aged 60 and above currently stands at over 14 million and is projected to increase significantly by 2050, raising concerns about their welfare.
The professor said many older persons are already grappling with declining incomes, worsened by inflation and broader economic challenges, which have reduced their purchasing power.
He added that the absence of a strong social security framework has left many elderly Nigerians dependent on informal sources of support, which are becoming increasingly unreliable.
Ajiboye also pointed to changes in family structures, noting that the traditional system where extended families cared for older relatives is gradually weakening, leaving many without adequate care.
He explained that rural communities are particularly affected, as younger family members migrate to urban areas in search of better opportunities, reducing the support available to elderly relatives.
The don warned that without urgent intervention, the situation could worsen, with a significant number of older Nigerians facing poverty and neglect in the future.
He called on the government to prioritise policies that provide financial support, healthcare access, and social inclusion for the elderly.
Ajiboye also urged families, communities, and relevant stakeholders to play active roles in improving the living conditions of older persons.
He emphasised that ageing should not be associated with suffering, adding that with the right structures in place, older citizens can live with dignity and security.
