Abuja: The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and Caring Lot International Initiative (CLII), an NGO, have called on policymakers to prioritise improving Alzheimer’s disease treatment and increasing awareness of its effects. Mrs. Lawunmi Ismail, Chief Executive Officer of CLII, made the call while marking the 2025 World Alzheimer’s Day with the theme, ‘Remember Me, Empower Me’, in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ismail stated that CLII, ACCI, and the National Association of Seadogs, Sahara Deck, collaborated to ensure strong awareness of the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and how it can be managed. World Alzheimer’s Day is observed annually on September 21. Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys memory and thinking skills and is the most common form of dementia, a condition where brain cells are damaged and die, leading to a decline in cognitive and behavioral functions. Symptoms include memory loss, difficulty with planning, and personality changes, which worsen over time.
Ismail emphasized that Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disease that must be addressed appropriately and is not solely a consequence of aging. She expressed the need for policymakers to recognize and address the disease affecting elderly individuals. Chief Emeka Obegolu, President of ACCI, highlighted that the event’s theme is both a call to compassion and a challenge to action, stressing the importance of fostering inclusion, empathy, and support systems for those affected by memory loss.
Obegolu further stated that the initiative reflects the chamber’s belief in balancing commerce with community care and that economic growth can coexist with the well-being of people. He emphasized the global effort to raise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s and dementia. Despite marking World Alzheimer’s Day later than the global event, the organizations aim to increase awareness and understanding.
Obegolu, represented by Mr. Agabaidu Jideani, Director-General of ACCI, noted that over 55 million people worldwide are affected by Alzheimer’s. He encouraged fundraising, information sharing, and discussions on dementia as means to make a difference. ACCI remains committed to supporting healthcare delivery, promoting healthy aging, and encouraging investment in medical innovation and social welfare.
Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, ACCI’s 1st Deputy President and Chairman of Caring Lot Initiative, reiterated the commitment to effective sensitization on Alzheimer’s effects. He acknowledged the logistical challenges due to a lack of awareness but stressed the importance of education on the disease’s impact. Mr. Chike Onyia, President of the National Association of Seadogs, Sahara Deck, urged stakeholders to support efforts to combat Alzheimer’s and provide hope to the elderly.