The Thani Oladunjoye Old People Foundation (TOOPF), in collaboration with Age Nigeria Foundation, has joined the global community in commemorating the 2025 International Day of Older Persons with a vibrant celebration themed “Older Persons: Driving Local and Global Action – Our Aspiration, Our Wellbeing, Our Rights.”
Held in Epe, Lagos State, the event brought together senior citizens, community leaders, government representatives, and advocates for elderly welfare.
It featured a health walk, wellness campaign, educational workshops, local games and a dance competition, all designed to promote the rights, health, and social inclusion of older persons.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Tunde Thani, Convener of TOOPF, described the annual celebration as a beacon of hope and a platform to reaffirm the dignity of older persons.
“We gather here today not just to celebrate older persons, but to reaffirm our collective responsibility to protect their rights, promote their wellbeing, and recognize their contributions to our society,” he said.
Thani emphasized that aging should not translate to isolation or invisibility, noting that TOOPF provides access to health screenings, physical exercise, social interaction and community care.
“Our elders built the foundation upon which society stands today. It is only right that their health and happiness receive the attention they deserve,” he added.
He further called for local and global action to strengthen support systems for the aging population, stressing that their welfare should be a shared social priority.
President and CEO of Age Nigeria Foundation, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Oluwole, praised the initiative for spotlighting the invaluable contributions of older people to society.
“They’ve done well for their families, communities, and the nation at large. They deserve to be celebrated,” she said.
Mrs. Oluwole urged older persons to remain active and engaged, describing them as the “custodians of tradition and culture.” She also commended Mr. Thani for his perseverance in sustaining the initiative despite limited societal attention to elder welfare.
“This terrain is difficult because many don’t believe in investing in older people. But this foundation has brought smiles to their faces, and that deserves recognition,” she remarked.
Representing the Epe Local Government Chairperson, Alhaja Shabi Aminat lauded TOOPF for creating a space where the elderly feel valued and supported.
“My presence here reflects Madam Chairman’s commitment to the wellbeing of Epe residents. She will continue to support the development of this center,” she assured.
She also conveyed commendations from the Medical Officer of Health, Epe Local Government, who expressed surprise and delight at the level of medical care provided at the center.
“Seeing qualified doctors and surgeons attending to older persons is impressive. If we had more such facilities, they would go a long way in improving elderly care,” she said, urging well-meaning individuals to establish similar centers across Nigeria.
Chairman of the Older Persons Group at TOOPF, Alhaji Agara Ayinde, described this year’s celebration as the “best yet.”
“We were honored. The eye care, physiotherapy, refreshments, and games made us feel valued. I even came third in the draft game!” he said joyfully, appealing for more government support for the foundation.
Another participant, Ogbeni Mejindade Babatunde, highlighted the value of the educational sessions, saying,
“This year’s program was better than last. I learnt a lot, and I’m grateful to the center for caring for us.”
For Alhaja Toyin Tele-Olukoya, who traveled from Majek, Ajah, the experience was transformative.
“Before joining, I barely exercised. Now I understand the importance of fitness and good nutrition. Today’s event was inspiring, and I pray for such a facility to be established in Majek,” she said.
The celebration concluded with a renewed call for inclusive policies, sustainable healthcare, and greater community engagement for older persons.
Organisers reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that elders are not sidelined but empowered to continue contributing meaningfully to national development.
Through its health, wellness, and rights-driven initiatives, the Thani Oladunjoye Old People Foundation continues to bridge the gap between generations reminding all that caring for the elderly is not charity, but a collective duty and a moral responsibility.
