This study explores innovative community policing approaches that prioritize the safety, security, and empowerment of older persons. It delves into training programs, outreach initiatives, and collaborative partnerships that enhance police responses to elder abuse, exploitation, and other aging-related concerns. The context of Nigeria is particularly relevant, where over 5,000 innocent farmers have been killed by bandits and Fulani herdsmen, with 30% of the victims being older adults who are indigenous farmers .

The global aging population faces unique safety and security challenges, including elder abuse, exploitation, and social isolation. Traditional policing models often fail to address these concerns effectively. Therefore collaborative partnerships between law enforcement, community organizations, and older persons enhance trust and effective problem-solving.

Tailored training for officers will thus improve response to elder abuse and exploitation.

Community-based programs will reduce social isolation and increase access to support services.

Aging-friendly policing requires a paradigm shift from traditional law enforcement to community-centered approaches. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative, tailored, and community-based initiatives in protecting older persons’ rights and promoting safe, inclusive communities.

Recommendations:

1. Implement community policing models prioritizing older persons’ concerns.

2. Provide specialized training for law enforcement on elder abuse and exploitation.

3. Foster partnerships between law enforcement, community organizations, and older persons.

4. Train older adults in some form of self defence and procure alert gadgets to inform local police of impending dangers.

 

Implications:This research informs policy and practice reforms to ensure aging-friendly policing, promoting dignity, safety, and well-being for older persons globally.

David Oludare Mark has a blend of engineering, management, and public administration experience. His academic credentials includes: Bachelor of Engineering in Agricultural Engineering, Master’s in Strategic and Management Consultancy and a PhD in Public Administration from the University of Fort Hare, South Africa, with a thesis on “Government Policy on Care for the Aged: A Comparative Study of South Africa and Nigeria”.

 

Notably, Mark was the first international student to plough back to the community where he studied by celebrating older adults in Dimbaza, Eastern Cape where he was presented with an award . He has also obtained a Postgraduate Certificate in Dementia Studies from the University of Stirling, Scotland

 

Mark is a multifaceted professional making significant contributions to various fields. As Nigeria’s Liaison for Pass It On Network, he also made a submission by advocating for a convention for older persons at the United Nations Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing in 2019

 

He currently coordinates the Family Ark Mission in Nigeria by celebrating over 500 older adults at the International Day of Older Persons in Lagos .

 

Mark is also a member of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and serves as the coordinator for the University of 3rd Age Project Lagos Center, focusing on lifelong learning

 

Mark, recently assumed the role of Chief Superintendent of Police in the supernumerary police, dedicating himself to protecting vulnerable older adults in Nigeria, particularly those targeted by bandits and Fulani herdsmen while engaged in farming activities.

 

Mark was appointed to technical working groups on ageing by the National Senior Citizens Center Nigeria, contributing to the development of the National Policy on Ageing, the National Strategic Roadmap on Ageing in Nigeria (2022-2032).