President Bola Tinubu has approved an increase in the retirement age for doctors and other healthcare workers from 60 to 65 years.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), issued by Mannir Bature, its National Publicity Secretary on Wednesday.

Over the years, healthcare workers had consistently called for an increase in their retirement age to tackle brain drain, enhance knowledge transfer, and ensure quality healthcare delivery.

This demand had also been a key part of negotiations during nationwide strikes, often tied to the non-implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for doctors and health workers.

Muhammad Pate, the Coordinating Minister of health and Social Welfare, was however directed to formally present the approval to the Council on Establishment through the Office of the Head of Service for finalisation, according to the statement.

Pate also conveyed this policy shift during a high-level meeting with the NMA President, Bala Audu, and key stakeholders in the health sector.

The meeting also had in attendance the leadership of 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).

According to the statement, discussions centred on progress made regarding the welfare of doctors and other healthcare professionals in Nigeria.

Pate confirmed that the arrears resulting from the adjustment of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) were set for payment.

He said the President Tinubu also approved the correction of consequential adjustments for both CONMESS and Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) arising from the implementation of the new minimum wage.

“The necessary funds have been secured, and disbursement to beneficiaries will commence soon,” he said. (BusinessDay)