The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and Caring Lot International Initiative (CLII) have urged policymakers to prioritise Alzheimer’s disease treatment and improve public awareness about its effects.
Chief Executive Officer of CLII, Mrs Lawunmi Ismail, made the call in Abuja during an event to mark the 2025 World Alzheimer’s Day themed “Remember Me, Empower Me.”
Ismail said the event, organised in collaboration with ACCI and the National Association of Seadogs (Sahara Deck), aimed to promote greater understanding of the disease and its impact on families and communities.
She explained that Alzheimer’s disease, often mistaken for normal aging, is a degenerative brain disorder that progressively impairs memory, thinking, and behaviour.
“The disease does not only affect the aged. It’s not just about aging—it’s a degenerative brain condition that needs proper attention,” she said, urging policymakers to integrate Alzheimer’s awareness and treatment into national health policies.
ACCI President, Chief Emeka Obegolu, described the theme as both a call to compassion and a challenge to action, stressing the need for empathy and support systems that uphold the dignity of those affected.
Obegolu, represented by ACCI Director-General Mr Agabaidu Jideani, said the initiative reflected the chamber’s commitment to linking commerce with community welfare.
“At ACCI, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that advance healthcare delivery, promote healthy aging, and encourage private sector investment in medical innovation and social welfare,” he said.
He noted that more than 55 million people globally live with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, urging individuals and organisations to contribute to awareness and care efforts.
Also speaking, ACCI First Deputy President and Chairman of Caring Lot Initiative, Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, said the group was committed to sustained sensitisation on Alzheimer’s disease.
He noted that the late commemoration of the day in Nigeria reflected the need for stronger awareness and institutional support.
President of the National Association of Seadogs (Sahara Deck), Mr Chike Onyia, called on stakeholders to join efforts to “end Alzheimer’s and give hope to the elderly.”
To commemorate the event, ACCI and its partners provided free medical screenings, including tests for Hepatitis B, HIV/AIDS, malaria, and typhoid.
