President Bola Tinubu has sanctioned an increase in the retirement age for medical doctors and other healthcare professionals in Nigeria, raising it from 60 to 65 years.
This development was announced in a statement on Wednesday by Dr. Mannir Bature, the National Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).
According to Bature, President Tinubu has also authorized the release of funds to clear outstanding salary arrears owed to healthcare workers.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, has been directed to formally present this approval to the Council on Establishment through the Office of the Head of Service for final ratification.
Bature revealed that Prof. Pate shared details of the policy changes during a crucial meeting with NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, and other key stakeholders in the health sector.
He confirmed that payments related to the revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) will soon be disbursed.
Additionally, Tinubu has approved adjustments to both CONMESS and the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), reflecting the impact of the newly implemented minimum wage.
“The necessary funds have been secured, and disbursement to beneficiaries will commence soon,” Bature stated, adding that the process is already in advanced stages.
This policy shift is expected to provide financial relief to healthcare professionals, including members of the Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners and Nurses (ANPMPN), while promoting greater sustainability in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
