The Kwara government has unveiled plans to establish a geriatric centre as part of efforts to institutionalise elderly care and create employment opportunities.

The move was announced during the celebration of the 2025 National Older Persons’ Day, held on Wednesday at the Banquet Hall in Ilorin.

The event, organised by the Ministry of Social Development in collaboration with the Brafem Geriatric Foundation, also featured the unveiling of Kwara  Indigenous Crafts and Awards, a platform designed to celebrate the creativity and resilience of the state’s elderly artisans.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mariam Fatimah-Imam, the commissioner for social development, said that society must adapt to changing times by creating structured systems to cater to the elderly.

“A proposal for a geriatric centre is before the governor, and it will be sited at the Amoyo Rehabilitation Home,” she said.

The commissioner stated that the project would create jobs and enhance nursing care in the state. She added that the day was set aside to celebrate the state’s senior citizens, their health, experiences, and contributions to community life.

She encouraged younger generations to value indigenous craftsmanship.

(NAN)