By Agboola Fesobi

The Elderly Persons Association of Nigeria (EPAN) in Ondo State recently inaugurated the Akure South Local Government chapter and distributed palliatives to members.

The event, held on March 10, 2025, at the First Baptist Church Hall in Akure, brought together people from various religious backgrounds to advance the welfare of senior citizens.

L-R: Deputy Director, Ondo State Women Affairs Office, Mr. Oyegunwa Adebayo; Representative, NSCC, Chief Ade Ayeni; National Coordinator and Founder, EPAN, Dr. Amos Omoresemi; State Chairman, EPAN, Chief John S. Ilori; Ex-official, Hon. Korede Duyile; Dr. (Mrs.) Bimpe Osundare and others.

Founded by Triad Ministries International, EPAN aims to improve the quality of life for elderly Nigerians.

The National Coordinator and Founder of EPAN, Revd (Dr) Abiodun Omoresemi, addressed the gathering, urging elderly Nigerians to take proactive steps in managing their health.

 He advocated for the use of traditional remedies, particularly local herbs, to maintain good health in old age.

 As Nigeria’s first Gerontologist, Omoresemi emphasised the importance of self-sufficiency, encouraging the elderly not to solely rely on their children for financial support.

Omoresemi also called on the government to implement and fund programmes that cater for the elderly, irrespective of their religious affiliation.

Beneficiaries of the palliatives

He stressed the need for both state and federal authorities to prioritiSe initiatives that support senior citizens.

The state Chairman of EPAN, Chief John O. Ilori, also spoke at the event, highlighting the association’s commitment to ensuring that members who are unable to attend regular meetings receive adequate assistance.

 Ilori reassured members that while resources are currently limited, better days are ahead.

He further noted that not only public servants, but also artisans, traders and farmers have made significant contributions to the nation, and therefore deserve to benefit from government initiatives.

Cross section of participants at the event

The event culminated in the inauguration of the Akure South Local Government executives, with over 30 elderly members receiving cash gifts, free medication, food supplements, and other essential items as part of the palliative distribution.

EPAN’s ongoing efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to improving the lives of elderly Nigerians, ensuring they are treated with dignity and receive the necessary care and support in their later years.