President Bola Tinubu has sanctioned the extension of the retirement age for doctors and healthcare professionals from 60 to 65 years.
Dr. Mannir Bature, the National Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Medical Association, made this announcement on Wednesday in Lagos. He indicated that the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, will formally present the approval to the Council on Establishment through the Office of the Head of Service for finalization.
During discussions with NMA President Prof. Bala Audu and key stakeholders within the health sector, Minister Pate underscored the significance of this policy alteration. Among the participants were leaders from the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, and the Joint Health Sector Unions. The dialogue centered on initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare of healthcare professionals.
Dr. Bature remarked that the coordinating minister has confirmed that the arrears from adjustments to the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure are prepared for disbursement. “Funds have been allocated, and payments to beneficiaries will commence shortly,” he stated.
Furthermore, Bature quoted the minister, who conveyed that President Tinubu has approved necessary modifications to the consequential adjustments for both the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and the Consolidated Health Salary Structure in light of the recent minimum wage implementation. “The process to execute this correction is well underway, providing much-needed relief to healthcare workers,” he added.
In addition, following a thorough assessment by the NMA, new tariffs for healthcare service providers have been approved. This modification will especially benefit members of the Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners and Nurses (ANPMPN), facilitating enhanced financial remuneration and sustainability for healthcare services nationwide.
The Coordinating Minister expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their patience and cooperation, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to advancing the welfare of healthcare professionals. Minister Pate emphasized the importance of collaboration in fortifying Nigeria’s health sector.
Tinubu Greenlights 65-Year Retirement Age for Medical Workers and Doctors
