The Kebbi State Executive Council has approved the extension of the retirement age for medical and veterinary doctors in the state civil service from 60 to 65 years.
The decision was announced after the State Executive Council meeting by the Commissioner for Establishment, Pension and Training, Alhaji Auwal Manu Dogondaji. He said the approval was part of efforts by the state government to improve service delivery and strengthen the healthcare sector.
According to him, doctors in the state civil service were previously required to retire at the age of 60 under the general public service rule. However, the health sector continues to face challenges such as shortage of doctors, migration of skilled personnel, and increasing healthcare needs of the population.
Dogondaji said many medical professionals reach their highest level of experience and specialization between the ages of 55 and 65. He noted that compulsory retirement at 60 often leads to the loss of highly experienced consultants, surgeons, specialists, and mentors who are still capable of serving effectively.
He added that the Federal Government, as well as some states including Kogi, Niger, and Cross River, have already adopted similar policies. He said the new measure aligns Kebbi State with established best practices and will help retain experienced professionals within the state.
The commissioner explained that the policy also applies to veterinary doctors. However, officers retained beyond 60 years of age or 35 years of service must undergo annual medical fitness tests and maintain satisfactory performance records.
He stated that under the new arrangement, retirement will now take place at 65 years of age or after 40 years of service, whichever comes first. The policy takes effect from January 1, 2026, according to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ahmed Idris.