By Sarah NEGEDU
The Federal Capital Territory Administration has announced plans to step up protections for elderly residents amid rising concerns over neglect, physical, emotional, and financial abuse.
The assurance came from the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, during activities marking the 2025 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, WEAAD, themed “Beyond Age.”
Dr. Fasawe, in a statement by her media aide, Bola Ajao, said the global event, held annually on June 15, seeks to draw attention to the often-silent suffering of older persons and promote the defence of their rights and dignity.
She noted that under the leadership of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, the administration is supporting vulnerable elderly persons through targeted interventions, including the Renewed Hope Initiative Support for the Elderly, which is aimed at improving their wellbeing.
She said 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 for elderly persons in Abuja.
Dr. Fasawe urged residents, community leaders, and health professionals to show greater appreciation for the lived experiences and contributions of older citizens, while remaining alert to signs of abuse.
She urged the public to watch for unexplained injuries, fearfulness, sudden financial changes, and withdrawal and also report concerns to the appropriate authorities.
To strengthen elder care in the territory, HSES, according to her, will upgrade geriatric services, train frontline health workers on detecting and responding to abuse, and collaborate with religious and community leaders to boost awareness.
She further appealed to federal ministries, NGOs, civil society groups, and development partners to support the FCTA in advancing policies that discourage exploitation and promote mental wellbeing, social inclusion, and access to quality care.
According to Fasawe, this 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.
Residents are encouraged to report suspected cases of elder abuse or seek help through the hotline 09164059609 or by email at geriatriccarehsesfct@gmail.com
