With elderly persons said to be particularly at risk to the effect of Covid-19, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiya Farouk, has said the Federal Government was committed to protecting and providing for the aged and vulnerable in the country.
The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in 171 deaths in Nigeria, with 5,445 reported cases. Globally, over four million cases have been recorded with over 300,000 deaths.
Mrs. Farouk reiterated government’s commitment during a Covid-19 Response Outreach and Distribution of Palliatives to the elderly in Karishi, Abuja, on Saturday.
About 100 quarter bags of rice, cartons of spaghetti, sugar, milk and wrappers among other items, were distributed to the elderly people in Karishi.
She said the ministry would continue to respond to the hardship caused by Covid-19 until the pandemic is defeated.
She explained: “Today, we are here to deliver palliatives to the elderly and here is the flag-off. It will continue to all the six area councils and on behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari, I will ensure that government brings succour to all vulnerable groups”.
Also at the event was the President, Coalition of Societies for the Rights of Older Persons (COSROPIN), Sen Eze Ajoku, who adnitted that the elderly were at the greatest risk of COVID-19 infection; and commended the Minister for the palliatives and promised to continue to work in partnership with the Ministry.
