Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
Dementia Africa on Monday held an awareness walk in Abuja to mark the 2026 Dementia Week, drawing public attention to dementia care, early diagnosis, and stronger health-sector support for people living with the condition across Africa.
The walk began at 10:00 a.m. from Eagle Square and ended at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, where participants gathered to show solidarity with people living with dementia and their families.
Speaking on behalf of Dr. Oma Iyoko (PhD), the International Coordinator of Dementia Africa and Expert in Psychological Therapies and Mental Health, Mr. Seyi Babaeko, MD/CEO of Absolute Security and Advance Protocol Ltd, said the campaign was designed to increase public understanding of dementia and encourage stronger institutional response to the condition.
Babaeko also conveyed Dr. Iyoko’s goodwill message to the Honourable Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, commending his leadership and commitment to repositioning Nigeria’s health sector.
He said the visit also provided an opportunity to formally inform the Ministry about the forthcoming Dementia Conference, scheduled to hold from September 2 to 3, 2026, at Exclusive Serene Hotel, Abuja.
According to him, the conference will bring together healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers, development partners, and other stakeholders to examine the state of dementia care in Africa and propose practical solutions in awareness creation, research, policy development, and quality care.
Prof. Chris Piwuna, Consultant Psychiatrist and Patron of Dementia Africa, has called for collective action and increased global support for people living with dementia.
Other dignitaries included Hon. Tunde Akanmidu, Senior Legislative Aide to the Deputy Senate President; Mrs. Oluronke Babaeko, Chief Operating Officer of ASAP Ltd; Comrade Tijani Usman, former President of the National Association of Nigerian Students; and Miss Chiwendu Charity Igwe, CEO of PrimeGood Public Health Initiative.
The event ended with the presentation of an Award of Excellence and a Letter of Commendation to the Minister. The items were received on his behalf by Nrs. Grace Ogunleye, National Mental Health programme, department of Public health.
Dementia Africa reaffirmed its commitment to sustained advocacy, public education, and stakeholder engagement aimed at improving dementia care and support systems across Africa.
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