The Federal Capital Territory Administration has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting elderly citizens from various forms of abuse, including health-related, physical, emotional, financial, and psychological mistreatment within the territory.
This assurance was given by the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, in commemoration of the 2025 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, themed, “Beyond Age.”
This is according to the statement released on Sunday by the Special Adviser to the Media, Mrs Bola Ajao.
Fasawe said WEAAD, marked globally on June 15, seeks to raise awareness about the often-silent abuse of older persons and to promote the protection of their rights and dignity.
She noted that under the leadership of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, the FCTA was actively supporting elderly residents through initiatives like the Renewed Hope Initiative Medical Mission-Support for the Elderly, which aims to improve their overall well-being.
“The Secretariat also supported the maiden edition of the initiative, spearheaded by the Office of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, which provided free medical screenings, treatment and medication for elderly persons in Abuja.
“To mark the 2025 WEAAD, Dr Fasawe urged residents, community leaders, and health professionals to value older citizens for their experiences and contributions.
“She advised the public to watch for signs of abuse such as unexplained injuries, fearfulness, sudden financial changes, and withdrawal and report concerns to the appropriate authorities.
“In support of elder protection, HSES plans to upgrade geriatric services, train frontline health workers to detect and respond to abuse, and collaborate with community and religious leaders to raise awareness and uphold the dignity of older people,” the statement highlighted.
The mandate secretary further called on federal ministries, non-governmental organisations, civil society organisations, and development partners to work with the FCTA in advancing policies that prevent exploitation, improve social inclusion and mental well-being, enhance access to care, and establish effective reporting and support systems for abuse cases.
According to Dr Fasawe, this was a collective call to action to look “beyond age” to respect and include older people in society, challenge stereotypes, and protect them from neglect and abuse.
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