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, and from 35 to 40 years of service, whichever comes first.
Addressing journalists shortly after the State Executive Council meeting, the Commissioner for Establishment, Pension and Training, Alhaji Auwal Manu Dogondaji, said the approval followed the Governor’s consideration to streamline civil service processes and strengthen service delivery in the health sector.
He explained that medical and veterinary doctors in the State Civil Service were previously required to retire at the age of 60 in line with the general public service retirement policy, however, the health sector continued to face persistent challenges, including doctor shortages, brain drain and an ageing population with increasing healthcare demands.
“You will find that many doctors attain their peak clinical experience and specialization between the ages of 55 and 65. Forcing retirement at 60 results in the loss of highly skilled consultants, surgeons and specialists who are still fit and actively contributing to service delivery, training and mentorship,” he stated.
He emphasized that the approval also covered veterinary doctors in the State Civil Service, with effect from January 1st, 2026. However, retention beyond 60 years or 35 years of service will be subject to annual medical fitness certification and satisfactory performance appraisal.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, described the decision as an excellent step in the right direction, noting that the issue has remained one of the major concerns of medical professionals at the national level.
He explained that Kebbi State had peculiar circumstances in which medical and veterinary students, as well as nursing and midwifery students, were often granted permanent and pensionable appointments at certain stages of their training. According to him, this arrangement significantly reduced the number of years available for active service after graduation and professional advancement within the civil service.
He noted that previous attempts to address the challenge through contract appointments did not adequately bridge the gap due to differences in responsibilities, commitment, and institutional engagement between contract and regular staff.
Dr. Sununu emphasized that, as in many other professions, experience, leadership capacity, empathy, and dedication increase with age and years of service, making Governor Idris’ decision both timely and justifiable
