The Kebbi State Government has extended the retirement age for medical and veterinary doctors in its civil service from 60 to 65 years, and the years of service from 35 to 40, in a move aimed at retaining experienced professionals, addressing manpower shortages, and strengthening healthcare delivery across the state.
The policy, according to the government, is part of broader efforts to improve healthcare services, enhance efficiency in the public service, and ensure the retention of critical expertise within the state’s health sector.
The decision was announced on Monday in Birnin Kebbi by the Commissioner for Establishment, Pension and Training, Auwal Dogondaji, shortly after the State Executive Council meeting.
Dogondaji said the new arrangement means medical and veterinary doctors in the state civil service will now retire at 65 years of age or after 40 years of service, whichever comes first.
He said the policy was approved following sustained efforts by Governor Nasir Idris to strengthen the healthcare system and improve service delivery across the state.
Previously, medical and veterinary doctors in Kebbi State were subject to the general public service retirement policy of 60 years or 35 years of service.
The commissioner said the review became necessary due to persistent shortages of skilled medical personnel, the migration of healthcare workers to other states and countries, and increasing healthcare demands.
He noted that many medical practitioners reach their peak clinical competence and specialization between the ages of 55 and 65, arguing that retirement at 60 often leads to the loss of highly experienced specialists.
“You will find that many doctors attain their peak clinical experience and specialization between the ages of 55 and 65. Forcing retirement at 60 results in the loss of highly skilled consultants, surgeons and specialists who are still fit and actively contributing to service delivery, training and mentorship,” Dogondaji said.
He added that the policy is designed to preserve critical expertise within the healthcare system, particularly in specialised fields where experienced professionals remain in short supply.
Dogondaji also noted that senior doctors play an important role in mentoring younger practitioners and supporting the training of future healthcare professionals.
He said the policy aligns Kebbi State with emerging national and international practices in the management of healthcare personnel.
According to him, the Federal Government, as well as several states including Kogi, Niger and Cross River, have already adopted similar measures to retain experienced medical professionals.
The commissioner added that extending the retirement age would help reduce the loss of experienced doctors to other states offering better conditions of service and improve stability in the state’s healthcare workforce.
He also confirmed that veterinary doctors would benefit from the revised policy, in recognition of their role in safeguarding animal health, food security, and public health.
Dogondaji further stated that doctors retained beyond 60 years or 35 years of service would be subject to annual medical fitness assessments and satisfactory performance appraisals as a condition for continued service.
“Retention beyond 60 years or 35 years of service will be subject to annual medical fitness certification and satisfactory performance appraisal,” he said.