UNIZIK AVC Calls for Renewed Awareness on Ageing as National Day for Older Persons Approaches

The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (Unizik), Prof. Carol Chinyelugo Arinze-Umobi, has called for renewed awareness on ageing as the National Day for Older Persons approaches on October 5, 2025.

Prof. Arinze-Umobi made the call while receiving members of the Research Centre for Ageing, Cognition, and Psychological Health in her office. The announcement was made by the University’s Acting Public Relations Officer, Mr. Njelita Louis.

The Director of the Centre, Prof. Rita Ugokwe Joseph, a former Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, thanked the AVC for her continued support and solicited further assistance. Prof. Ugokwe highlighted challenges faced by the Centre, including institutional support and funding, and expressed gratitude to the traditional ruler of Obosi, HRH Igwe Chidubem Iweka, who has offered to support the Centre.

Prof. Arinze-Umobi assured the Centre of her full support and promised to present a proposal for the institution of the Igwe Eze Iweka Annual Lecture to the University management. She also pledged to liaise with the Director of Academic Planning to streamline the curriculum for a new programme on caregiving. The AVC emphasized the importance of paying attention to issues affecting older persons and nurturing this age group.

The Centre plans to organize a programme to mark the National Day for Older Persons, with Prof. Arinze-Umobi assuring her support. The visit concluded with the presentation of a souvenir to the AVC by the group leader.

Other dignitaries in attendance included Iyom Josephine Anenih, mni, Former Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development and President of Elderly People in Nigeria; Dr. Chris I. Obiator, Founder of Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation of Nigeria; Rev. Fr. Dr. Aloysius Ezeanolue; Mr. Chukwuma Elijah; and Miss Usanyem Anenih.