Aging and Caregiving in Contemporary Nigeria: Myths and Realities

According to UN estimates, the population of older adults (60+) in Nigeria will increase from 9.1 million in 2019 to 11.5 million in 2025 and 25.5 million in 2050. By this measure, they will constitute about 10% of the total Nigerian population by 2050 (currently 4.5%). It is generally believed that older adults are beings cared for and supported by family and friends, as was true in traditional Nigerian society. That is not the case. Economic forces, education, changing family structures and other factors have completely transformed the situation. This lecture will present the reality, from the perspective of a gerontologist and a caregiver.

In partnership with the School of Social Work.