GRAF celebrates 15yrs as ex-Justice Minister calls for legal framework for elderly welfare

The Graceful Ageing Fellowship (GRAF), a faith-based non-governmental organization, has marked its 15th anniversary in Abuja, with calls for a healthier and more balanced lifestyle for older persons and the establishment of legal protections for their welfare.

Speaking during the celebration, Venerable Obioma Onwuzurumba, a former chaplain of Aso Villa, urged Christians to embrace a lifestyle that promotes healthy and responsible aging.

In his sermon themed “A Balanced Lifestyle,” he described old age as a divine blessing and encouraged the congregation to avoid actions that could jeopardize it. “Older persons should always live a godly life worthy of emulation,” he emphasized.

On his part, former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Bayo Ojo, commended GRAF for its efforts in promoting healthy living among Nigerians.

While congratulating the fellowship, Ojo emphasised the importance of exercise, natural diets, and avoiding unhealthy habits for older persons.

He also called for a legal framework to improve the welfare of elderly Nigerians, aligning with global standards.

Dr. Ada Mac-Odigee, a lecturer at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Abuja, who served as the guest speaker, stressed the importance of advocacy and continuous awareness campaigns to ensure better living conditions for the elderly.

She advised older persons to eat right, exercise regularly, and remain committed to serving God and humanity..

Earlier, the International Coordinator of GRAF, Senator Eze Ajoku, said the Fellowship had in last fifteen years promoted healthy living through its various activities among the old persons and the younger ones both in Nigeria and other countries.

“GRAF was born out of a sickness experience I had back in 2009, through that experience, I was introduced to a healthy living lifestyle by Doctor N.A Onuoha .Thereafter the Holy Spirit then encouraged me to teach my age mates what I had learnt which had led to my recovery and this is how GRAF was birthed,” Ajoku said.