Urgent Call for Enhanced Dementia Care in Nigeria

Olatoun Gabi-Williams, the Administrator of Gabi Williams Alzheimer’s Foundation (GWAF), called for stronger government action on dementia care and support for the elderly during the 8th annual memorial symposium for her father, Dr. Gabisiu Ayodele Williams, held in Lagos.

The symposium, themed ‘The Emotional Cost of Japa: Safeguarding the Elderly and Combating Unwitting Neglect in Dementia Care,’ highlighted the need for renewed commitment to improve the welfare of elderly Nigerians living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Gabi-Williams pointed out that while Nigeria has established structures like the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC), there is a pressing need to reinvigorate its activities and enhance collaboration among stakeholders.

She acknowledged the Federal Ministry of Health and Lagos State government's initiatives for older persons but stressed the importance of better coordination. Gabi-Williams shared her family's experience caring for her father, noting the widespread ignorance about Alzheimer’s and the emotional presence of patients despite cognitive decline.