The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has announced that President Bola Tinubu has approved an extension of the retirement age for doctors and other healthcare workers from 60 to 65 years.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, February 5, Mannir Bature, the NMA’s national publicity secretary, shared that the approval would be formally presented to the council on establishment through the office of the head of service for final approval. The presentation will be made by Muhammad Pate, the coordinating minister of health and social welfare.
Bature explained that the policy shift was communicated by Pate during a high-level meeting with Bala Audu, NMA president, and other key stakeholders in the health sector.
Representatives from 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) also participated in the meeting. Discussions focused on the advancements made in improving the welfare of doctors and healthcare professionals in the country.
Bature added that Pate confirmed that the arrears stemming from the adjustment of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) are set to be paid, with the necessary funds already secured. Disbursement to beneficiaries will begin soon, bringing much-needed relief to doctors and healthcare workers.
