President Tinubu Approves 5-Year Increase in Retirement Age of Doctors, Other Health Workers in Nigeria
President Bola Tinubu has approved the increase in the retirement age for medical doctors and other healthcare professionals in the health sector from 60 to 65 years.
The National Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr Mannir Bature made the revelation in a statement issued in Lagos on Wednesday.
The NMA Spokesman said that the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, has been directed to formally present the approval to the Council on Establishment through the Office of the Head of Service for final ratification and integration into the service conditions of health workers.
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Dr. Bature revealed that the new policy was conveyed to the NMA by the Minister at a high-level meeting with the NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, and key stakeholders in the health sector comprising the leadership of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), and the Joint Health Sector Unions, JOHESU.
According to Bature, the high-level engagement dwelled greatly on progress made regarding the welfare of doctors and other healthcare professionals in Nigeria.
He explained, “The necessary funds have been secured, and disbursement to beneficiaries will commence soon.”
“The process to effect this correction is at an advanced stage, providing much-needed relief to doctors and other healthcare workers.”
Dr Bature quoted the minister as saying that President Tinubu has approved the correction of consequential adjustments for both CONMESS and the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), arising from the implementation of the new minimum wage.
He further explained that an extensive review initiated by the NMA, approval has been granted for the implementation of new tariffs for healthcare service providers.
“This will particularly benefit members of the Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners and Nurses (ANPMPN), ensuring better financial remuneration and sustainability for healthcare services nationwide,” he said.
Mr Bature said the Coordinating Minister expressed appreciation for the patience and collaboration of all stakeholders, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of all healthcare workers.
The NMA has championed increasing the retirement age of health workers from 60 to 65 years to address brain drain, improve knowledge transfer and for quality healthcare delivery.