BREAKING: Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, signs Senior Citizens Bill into law

Sele Media Africa — Umuahia, Nigeria Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur.

In a groundbreaking development for social welfare in Abia State, Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti has signed the Senior Citizens Bill into law — a legislation aimed at improving the lives of elderly residents aged 60 and above across the state. The law, which was among a package of bills assented to by Governor Otti, is designed to provide structured care and support for ageing citizens. �Information Nigeria +1The landmark signing took place in a joint session of the Abia State Executive Council and the State House of Assembly. Among the 18 executive bills signed on the day was the Abia State Senior Citizens Law, intended to create a framework for the welfare and protection of senior residents. �Information Nigeria +1Key Provisions and ExpectationsAlthough details regarding specific entitlements continue to emerge, the Senior Citizens Law is widely reported to include provisions for enhanced social support, including plans for monthly stipends and free access to medical care for qualified beneficiaries — elderly indigenes aged 60 years and above. �opitanglobalmedia.comIf fully implemented as reported by some media outlets, the benefits could transform quality of life for many of Abia’s ageing population, addressing long-standing calls for improved social protection. �opitanglobalmedia.comPublic ReactionThe news of the signing has generated strong reactions across social and mainstream media. Many senior citizens and advocacy groups have lauded the governor’s action as a major step in supporting vulnerable populations, while others are seeking clarity from the state government on implementation timelines and mechanisms. �opitanglobalmedia.comGovernment ClarificationHowever, recent official statements indicate that the Abia State Senior Citizens Centre — established under the law — is focused on facilitating social protection and access to healthcare and welfare services, rather than direct cash distribution. State officials emphasize the centre will help create a reliable database of senior citizens and coordinate services with relevant ministries and agencies. �ABN TVBackgroundThe Senior Citizens Bill was passed by the Abia State House of Assembly earlier in 2025 as part of ongoing efforts to establish institutional support frameworks for elderly residents. The law’s passage marked a significant legislative milestone in the state’s social policy landscape. �The Whistler NewspaperAs implementation details continue to unfold, Sele Media Africa will track developments and provide updates on how the new law will impact senior citizens across Abia State.Reference ListAbia Governor Otti Signs 18 Bills, Including Senior Citizens Protection Law — Information Nigeria (May 27, 2025). �Information Nigeria2nd Year Anniversary In Office: Otti Meets Abia Lawmakers, Signs 18 Bills Into Law — Independent Newspaper Nigeria (May 27, 2025). �Independent Newspaper NigeriaAbia State Old People Go Dey Collect Free Salary and Medical Care After Governor Otti Sign Bill — Opit Global Media (2026). �opitanglobalmedia.comAbia Senior Citizens Centre Not Created To Share Free Money – Govt — ABN TV (January 15, 2026). �ABN TVAbia Assembly Passes Bill To Establish Centre For Senior Citizens — The Whistler Newspaper (April 3, 2025). �The Whistler NewspaperStay with Sele Media Africa for continuing coverage.

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Afilawos Magana Sur

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Afilawos Magana Sur is a journalist from Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, currently based in Bauchi metropolis. He is known for his commitment to accurate, ethical, and responsible journalism, with a focus on reporting issues of public relevance and community development.

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