Tinubu Approves Increase in Retirement Age for Doctors and Healthcare Workers

President Tinubu has approved a raise in the retirement age for doctors and healthcare workers in Nigeria. Learn how this decision impacts the healthcare sector. 

President Bola Tinubu has authorized raising the retirement age for doctors and other healthcare professionals in Nigeria, extending it from 60 to 65 years.

Dr. Mannir Bature, the National Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), made the announcement in a statement released on Wednesday in Lagos.

Bature stated that Prof. Muhammad Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, has been directed to officially submit the approval to the Council on Establishment via the Office of the Head of Service for finalization.

During a high-level meeting with NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, and other key stakeholders in the health sector, Prof. Pate communicated this important policy change.

Bature mentioned that the meeting was also attended by leaders from the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, as well as representatives from the Joint Health Sector Unions.

He stated that the discussions focused on advancements in the welfare of doctors and other healthcare professionals in Nigeria.

He stated that the coordinating minister confirmed plans to pay the arrears from adjusting the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure.

“The required funds have been secured, and disbursement to beneficiaries will begin shortly,” he stated.

Bature reported that the minister stated President Tinubu has authorized adjustments to both CONMESS and the Consolidated Health Salary Structure as a result of implementing the new minimum wage.

“The procedure to implement this correction is well underway, offering much-needed relief to doctors and other healthcare professionals,” he stated.

He stated that after an extensive review initiated by the NMA, approval has been given for implementing new tariffs for healthcare service providers.

“This will especially benefit members of the Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners and Nurses (ANPMPN), guaranteeing improved financial compensation and sustainability for healthcare services across the country,” he stated.

Bature mentioned that the Coordinating Minister thanked all stakeholders for their patience and collaboration, while reaffirming the Federal Government’s dedication to enhancing the welfare of all healthcare workers.

Bature mentioned that Pate stressed the importance of collaboration in enhancing Nigeria’s health sector.

He stated that those present at the meeting reaffirmed their dedication to collaborate in advocating for healthcare workers’ welfare and ensuring the comprehensive implementation of essential reforms.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the NMA has led efforts to raise the retirement age for health workers from 60 to 65 years. This initiative aims to combat brain drain, enhance knowledge transfer, and ensure quality healthcare delivery.

NAN reports that several health associations and unions have announced nationwide strikes due to the non-implementation of CONMESS and CONHESS for doctors and healthcare workers.