Caring Lot International Initiative Champions National Alzheimer’s Awareness Campaign in Nigeria

By our Correspondent

In a groundbreaking effort to highlight the growing challenge of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in Nigeria, the Caring Lot International Initiative (CLII) has launched a nationwide awareness campaign to combat stigma, promote inclusion, and advocate for supportive health policies for elderly citizens living with memory-related conditions.

The campaign, which aligned with the 2025 World Alzheimer’s Day commemoration themed “Remember Me, Empower Me,” was organized in partnership with the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and its Medical and Health Trade Group. It represents the first formal national observance of Alzheimer’s awareness in Nigeria, bringing together key players from the medical, business, and advocacy sectors.

Speaking at the event, Engr. (Mrs.) Lawunmi Ismail, CEO of CLII and Vice President (ICT) of ACCI, stressed that Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disorder, not a natural part of aging as widely believed. She condemned misconceptions that associate memory loss with witchcraft or spiritual causes and called for greater national empathy and policy attention for the elderly.

“Alzheimer’s is not aging; it is a degenerative disease of the brain,” she stated. “We are advocating for awareness, recognition, and inclusion in Nigeria’s health policy framework so that our elderly can live with dignity, equity, and respect. Countries around the world protect people living with dementia — Nigeria must not be left behind.”

Engr. Ismail further emphasized that advocacy, education, and community engagement are vital in addressing stigma and encouraging early diagnosis. “When older people start forgetting names, birthdays, or even their signatures, they deserve understanding and care, not judgment or isolation,” she said. “Our goal is to bring this conversation into homes, communities, and policy circles, ensuring that people living with Alzheimer’s are seen, supported, and loved.”

The 1st Deputy President of ACCI and Chairman of CLII, Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, described the campaign as a timely step toward national health inclusion. He observed that Alzheimer’s is becoming more visible in Nigeria due to social and demographic changes, noting that over 200,000 elderly Nigerians may currently live with the condition.

“As families become smaller and more dispersed, traditional support systems for the aged are weakening,” he explained. “Education and collaboration are now essential. We must recognize the early signs of Alzheimer’s and respond with empathy rather than stigma. This initiative is a wake-up call for Nigerians to understand that aging and brain health require collective care.”

Prof. Adesugba also announced that the 2025 Alzheimer’s Awareness Campaign would become an annual national event to influence health policy, strengthen caregiver networks, and promote research and public engagement.

Representing the ACCI President, Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, PhD, the Director General of ACCI, Mr. Agabaidu Jideani, commended CLII and the Medical and Health Trade Group for integrating health advocacy into the business community. He reaffirmed ACCI’s commitment to partnerships that promote both commerce and compassion.

“Alzheimer’s is not just a medical diagnosis—it is a journey that affects hearts, homes, and hopes,” Agabaidu said. “We are proud to support Caring Lot International Initiative in championing awareness and inclusion for our elderly citizens. Commerce must go hand in hand with community care.”

He further highlighted ACCI’s Trade Fair Medical and Health Outreach, which provided free screenings and wellness education during the 20th Abuja International Trade Fair, as part of the Chamber’s broader mission to promote sustainable and inclusive development.

The Nigeria Alzheimer’s Awareness Week 2025, organized by CLII, featured several activities including an awareness walk and rally, public lecture and policy dialogue, caregiver support workshops, and free health screenings for more than 200 elderly participants. The initiative seeks to boost national awareness, inspire empathy, and push for policy reforms to improve dementia care in Nigeria.

“We are taking the first step toward a future where no elderly person is abandoned, stigmatized, or forgotten,” Engr. Ismail concluded. “Through awareness, advocacy, and partnership, we will build a more compassionate Nigeria that truly remembers and empowers.”