Assessing the Legal Framework for Healthcare Needs of the Aged & Senior Citizens in Nigeria

This article examines the legal framework for the healthcare needs of senior citizens in Nigeria, highlighting the challenges and gaps in the existing framework. The research has tried to map the sufficiency of the legal framework for healthcare needs for the aged in Nigeria, by exploring the status of healthcare of senior citizens in Nigeria and examining the challenges and gaps in the implementation of legislation and policies in the welfare of the senior citizens in Nigeria. Doctrinal research methodology and an analytical approach helped assess the available legal framework, policies and decided cases by courts. It was noted available legal provisions and initiatives are inadequate and ineffective in addressing the healthcare needs of this vulnerable population. It is observed that gaps exist in Nigeria's legal framework and policies. The research recommendations can be harnessed to propose a working bill to the National Assembly in this regard.