By Adewunmi Oluwaseun
As Abuja joined the world to mark World Hypertension Day, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has intensified its call for widespread blood pressure (BP), screening and stronger health interventions to combat hypertension-the silent killer affecting millions.
Speaking during the flag-off of free BP screening at the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, emphasized the urgency of early detection and control.
Represented by Permanent Secretary Dr. Babagana Adam, she revealed that 34% of FCTA staff and residents screened in 2024 were found hypertensive.
This year’s theme, “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer”, underscores the critical need for precise BP checks and healthy lifestyles to prevent complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and vision loss.
Global data indicates over 1.1 billion adults are hypertensive-many unaware of their condition. In Nigeria, about 3 to 4 out of every 10 people are hypertensive, with only 20% managing it effectively.
To confront this growing crisis, FCTA has deployed initiatives across 60 primary health centres through the Hypertension Treatment in Nigeria Program, alongside WHO-backed projects like N-PEN and Healthy Heart Africa.
These efforts focus on affordable medication, better access to care, and empowering frontline health workers.
Fasawe praised health partners and reaffirmed FCTA’s commitment to improving hypertension awareness, especially among vulnerable communities battling lifestyle shifts, poor diets, and limited access to care.
With media campaigns, community outreaches, and screenings in multiple Area Councils, the FCT hopes to strengthen its response and keep residents healthier, longer.
