FCTA URGES RESIDENTS TO PROTECT ELDERLY CITIZENS FROM ABUSE
15-06-25
By Sadiq Aminu The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has called on all residents, community leaders, health workers, and family members to help protect elderly citizens from all forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, financial, and psychological mistreatment.
The Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, made the call in commemoration of the 2025 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), marked every June 15.
This year’s theme is “Beyond Age.”
Dr. Fasawe urged the public to look out for warning signs of elder abuse such as sudden injuries, fearfulness, strange financial changes, or withdrawal from social interactions, and report suspected abuse to appropriate authorities to ensure the safety and dignity of older people.
She noted that under the leadership of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, the FCTA is actively supporting elderly residents through initiatives like the Renewed Hope Initiative Medical Mission -Support for the Elderly.
She explained that the programme which offers them free medical screening, treatment, and medication, was introduced in Abuja by the Office of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to improve the health and wellbeing of senior citizens.
Dr. Fasawe also announced plans to upgrade geriatric healthcare services, train frontline health workers to detect and respond to abuse, and partner with community and religious leaders to spread awareness.
She called on federal ministries, NGOs, civil society groups, and development partners to join hands with the FCTA to create policies that protect elderly persons from exploitation, promote social inclusion, improve mental well-being, and establish effective support and reporting systems.