Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has signed the Senior Citizens Bill into law, introducing a welfare framework for residents aged 60 and above.
The new law provides for a monthly stipend, free medical care, and other social benefits for eligible senior citizens in the state.
According to details of the legislation, any Abia resident aged 60 years and above qualifies for the benefits, which are expected to run throughout the lifetime of beneficiaries.
The move is aimed at strengthening social protection for elderly citizens, many of whom face financial and health-related challenges after retirement.
While full implementation guidelines are yet to be made public, the policy marks one of the most expansive elderly welfare initiatives announced by the state government in recent years.
Observers say the financial implications, funding structure, and rollout mechanism will be key factors in determining the sustainability of the programme.
