Senior citizens’ welfare top priority in FCT – Minister

The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Mariya Mahmoud, has said that the well-being of senior citizens remains a top priority of the FCT Administration (FCTA). Dr Mariya, who disclosed this at the third edition of the Renewed Hope’s Social Investment Programme for the Elderly Support Scheme in Abuja on Tuesday, […]

The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Mariya Mahmoud, has said that the well-being of senior citizens remains a top priority of the FCT Administration (FCTA).
Dr Mariya, who disclosed this at the third edition of the Renewed Hope’s Social Investment Programme for the Elderly Support Scheme in Abuja on Tuesday, explained that the FCTA, through its women affairs secretariat, was committed to social protection, healthcare access, emotional support and social inclusion for the elderly.
She commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for initiating the programme, stressing that the elderly must feel valued, protected and supported by society.
The minister added that the intervention reflected gratitude and encouraged families, communities and institutions to uphold the dignity of the elderly, ensuring no one was left behind.
Describing the event’s theme: “Finding Joy in Old Age”, Dr Mariya said old age should be a season of dignity, fulfilment and peace; not neglect or hardship.
Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, the Mandate Secretary, FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, described the elderly as custodians of culture, wisdom and collective memory, highlighting the programme’s broader purpose beyond material support.
She said, “It is also about validation and affirmation that our elders, not only matter, but are seen, celebrated, valued and respected.”
It was gathered that the elderly beneficiaries in the FCT received N200,000 each, rice, spaghetti and other food items.