The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has pledged renewed efforts to protect elderly citizens from all forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, financial, and psychological mistreatment.
This commitment was made by the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, in a statement marking the 2025 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), themed “Beyond Age.”
Fasawe said the day serves as a global reminder of the often-overlooked abuse faced by older persons and called on residents to remain vigilant. “We must honour our elderly for their wisdom, experience, and contributions to society,” she stated.
Highlighting ongoing efforts, Fasawe noted that the FCTA, under the leadership of Minister Nyesom Wike, is backing initiatives such as the Renewed Hope Initiative Medical Mission – Support for the Elderly, which offers free medical screenings, treatment, and medication.
She added that the Health Secretariat will continue to strengthen geriatric services, train health workers to spot signs of abuse, and collaborate with community and religious leaders to improve awareness and intervention.
Members of the public were urged to report signs of elder abuse—such as sudden fear, unexplained injuries, financial exploitation, and social withdrawal—to the appropriate authorities Fasawe also called on federal agencies, NGOs, and civil society organisations to partner with the FCTA to promote policies that ensure elder care, social inclusion, mental well-being, and abuse prevention.
“This is a collective call to action,” she said. “We must look beyond age, protect the dignity of our elders, and create a society where they are respected, valued, and safe.”
