Bridging the UHC Gap: How Health Sector Reforms Can Better Serve Our Older Citizens

In July 2025, Nigeria said goodbye to several well-known figures, including the former President Muhammadu Buhari and the beloved Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona. They all lived into their 80s and 90s, prompting us to think about how prepared our nation is to support the growing number of older adults.

The demographic landscape in Nigeria is changing. The number of people over 65 has surged from 2 million in 1980 to 6 million in 2020, and it’s projected to reach 16 million by 2050, climbing to a staggering 74 million by 2100. This shift brings unique challenges, especially in healthcare.

Older adults often have specific health needs, including regular check-ups and management of chronic conditions. Unfortunately, our healthcare system may not be ready for this increase in demand. The 2020 Situation Analysis on Aging in Nigeria highlighted significant challenges faced by older individuals, such as social isolation and financial struggles. For instance, Mrs. N, a 74-year-old retired professor, shared her struggles with accessing care. She often has to travel great distances to find healthcare facilities that can meet her needs, which may not even have the necessary resources.

Additionally, patient attitudes pose another hurdle. Many older adults report inadequate treatment or dismissive attitudes from healthcare providers. A chilling example comes from Mrs. A, who stopped visiting her local hospital after an inappropriate comment from a doctor while seeking treatment.

Despite the obstacles, policy changes are underway. Initiatives like the National Senior Citizens Act (2017) aim to address some issues. However, historical neglect of elder care in Nigeria remains a pressing concern. The 1999 Constitution promises better elder care, but many commitments haven’t been fulfilled.

Investing in elder healthcare is not just a moral obligation but also a financial necessity. Poorly managed health issues can lead to costly complications. Unfortunately, Nigerian households often cover about 75% of healthcare expenses out of pocket, causing extra stress for families dealing with age-related illnesses.

Dr. Ogugua Osi-Ogbu, who leads Geriatric Medicine at the National Hospital in Abuja, emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive geriatric services. She warns that our healthcare challenges require cooperative efforts from both the government and the community. Only by addressing these issues can we hope for improvements.

For Nigeria to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC), it must prioritize geriatric care and make healthcare accessible for all age groups. This is vital not only for a fair future but also to honor the contributions of those who came before us. A health system that ensures respect and quality care for older citizens benefits everyone.

As we work towards creating a more inclusive healthcare system, let’s remember: we cannot build a future without acknowledging the foundations laid by our elders.



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