Kebbi State Government has approved the extension of the mandatory retirement age for medical and veterinary doctors in its civil service from 60 to 65 years in a move aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery.
The decision was taken at the State Executive Council meeting held on Monday at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi.
The Commissioner for Establishment, Pension and Training, Alhaji Auwal Manu Dogondaji, who briefed journalists after the meeting, said the policy also extends the length of service for affected professionals from 35 to 40 years, whichever comes first.
According to him, the reform was necessary to address manpower shortages in the health sector and retain experienced specialists who are often at the peak of their professional competence between the ages of 55 and 65.
“Many doctors reach their highest level of clinical experience and specialization within this age range. Mandatory retirement at 60 leads to the loss of highly skilled consultants, surgeons and specialists who are still active and capable of contributing to healthcare delivery, training and mentorship,” he said.
Dogondaji explained that the policy forms part of broader efforts by the state government to address challenges in the health sector, including shortage of personnel, brain drain, and workforce gaps created by retirements.
He added that veterinary doctors are also included in the new retirement arrangement.
However, he noted that retention beyond the age of 60 or 35 years of service would be subject to annual medical fitness certification and satisfactory performance appraisal.
“The extension is not automatic. Officers must be certified medically fit and must maintain acceptable performance standards annually,” he said.
The commissioner further stated that the policy, which takes effect from January 1, 2026, aligns with similar reforms adopted by the Federal Government and other states.