The Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting elderly citizens from various forms of abuse, including neglect, physical, emotional, and financial abuse within the territory.
This assurance was made by the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, in a statement marking the 2025 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), commemorated annually on June 15. The theme for this year’s event is “Beyond Age.”
Dr. Fasawe emphasized that WEAAD serves as a global call to recognize and combat the often-silent abuse faced by older persons, advocating for the protection of their dignity and rights.
Highlighting ongoing efforts, she noted that under the leadership of the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, the administration has been supporting senior citizens through initiatives such as the Renewed Hope Initiative Medical Mission – Support for the Elderly, designed to enhance their health and overall wellbeing.
She further acknowledged the Secretariat’s support for the maiden edition of the medical mission spearheaded by the Office of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, which provided free health screenings, treatment, and medications to elderly persons across Abuja.
In marking this year’s WEAAD, Dr. Fasawe urged residents, healthcare providers, and community leaders to remain vigilant and look out for signs of abuse—such as unexplained injuries, sudden fearfulness, changes in financial patterns, or social withdrawal, and report any concerns promptly.
Geriatric Services
She revealed that the Secretariat is working to upgrade geriatric services, train frontline health workers to detect and address elder abuse, and collaborate with religious and community leaders to promote awareness and uphold the dignity of the aged.
Dr. Fasawe also called on federal ministries, NGOs, civil society organizations, and development partners to join forces with the FCTA in developing and implementing policies aimed at preventing elder abuse, enhancing access to care, boosting mental and social wellbeing, and creating reliable reporting and support structures.
“This is a collective call to action,” she said, “to look ‘Beyond Age’ and ensure our older citizens are included, respected, and protected from all forms of neglect and mistreatment.”
For reports or enquiries on elder abuse, members of the public are encouraged to call 09164059609.