The Federal Capital Territory Administration has restated its commitment to safeguarding older citizens from various forms of abuse, as it marked the 2025 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day under the theme “Beyond Age.”
The Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, gave the assurance in a statement released through her Special Adviser on Media, Mrs. Bola Ajao.
She emphasized that the FCTA would intensify efforts to curb physical, emotional, financial, and psychological abuse of the elderly in the nation’s capital.
Dr. Fasawe highlighted that WEAAD, commemorated globally on June 15, aims to shed light on the often-unspoken abuse faced by older people and promote their rights and dignity in society.
“Under the leadership of the FCT Minister, His Excellency Nyesom Wike, we are implementing sustainable programs that improve the quality of life for our senior citizens,” she said.
She pointed to initiatives such as the Renewed Hope Initiative Medical Mission–Support for the Elderly, which offers free medical screenings, treatments, and medications for the aged, as part of the administration’s broader effort to protect and care for older residents.
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“We were proud to support the maiden edition of this initiative led by the Office of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. It is one of many steps we are taking to ensure our elders are not neglected,” Fasawe added.
In recognition of WEAAD, the FCTA is set to scale up geriatric healthcare services, train frontline workers to detect and respond to signs of abuse, and collaborate with religious and community leaders to promote awareness and dignity for the aged.
Dr. Fasawe also urged the public to look out for red flags such as sudden withdrawal, fearfulness, unexplained injuries, or abrupt financial changes among elderly individuals, and to report concerns to the appropriate channels.
“It’s time we looked beyond age and valued our elderly for their wealth of experience and contributions. Protecting them is a collective responsibility,” she stressed.
She called on federal ministries, NGOs, civil society, and international partners to join the FCTA in advancing policies that prevent elder exploitation, promote inclusion, and enhance access to quality care and support systems.
For reports or inquiries on elder abuse, the FCTA encouraged the public to call 09164059609 or email [email protected].
Dr. Fasawe concluded with a call to action; “Let us break the silence and confront the abuse of our elders. It’s not just about age—it’s about respect, inclusion, and humanity.”
