By Daniel Tyokua
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Health Services and Environment Secretariat has promised better deal for elderly people across the nation’s capital.
Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, mandate secretary of the Secretariat pledged the administration’s
commitment to protecting the elderly from various forms of abuse, including neglect, physical, emotional, and financial abuse.
She gave the assurance in a commemoration of the 2025 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), celebrated under the theme “Beyond Age.”
In a statement issued on Sunday by media aide to the secretary, Balo Ajao, Fasawe explained that 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.
It noted that under the watch of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, the FCTA is actively supporting elderly residents through initiatives like the “Renewed Hope Initiative Support for the Elderly” which is aimed at improving their wellbeing.
The statement also supported the maiden edition of the initiative, spearheaded by the Office of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, which provided free medical screenings for elderly persons in Abuja.
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.
The statement reads, “In support of the elderly, plans are underway to upgrade geriatric services and training of 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”
She further urged federal ministries, NGOs, CSOs, and development partners to work with the FCT Administration in advancing policies that prevent exploitation, improve social inclusion and mental wellbeing, enhance access to care, and establish effective reporting and support systems for abuse cases.
Fasawe said the idea is 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.
