The Kebbi State Government has approved an increase in the retirement age for medical and veterinary doctors in the state civil service, raising it from 60 to 65 years. The policy also extends the maximum years of service from 35 to 40 years, whichever comes first.
The decision was announced after a meeting of the State Executive Council in Birnin Kebbi. State officials said the change is aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery and reducing the loss of experienced professionals.
Under the previous policy, many doctors retired at 60 even when they were still actively practising and mentoring younger colleagues. The government said this often led to the departure of consultants, surgeons, and specialists who were at the peak of their experience.
What Changes
| Rule | Old | New |
|---|---|---|
| Retirement age | 60 years | 65 years |
| Maximum years of service | 35 years | 40 years |
Officials also said the move is intended to address ongoing shortages of medical personnel, migration of healthcare workers, and workforce gaps created by retirements. Veterinary doctors employed by the state government are included in the new policy.
Doctors retained beyond 60 years of age or 35 years of service must undergo annual medical fitness certification and maintain satisfactory performance appraisals. The government says the requirement is intended to ensure service standards remain high.
The state government said the new retirement policy takes retrospective effect from January 1, 2026.
The development comes amid wider national discussions on extending the retirement age for healthcare professionals as governments seek ways to retain skilled workers and improve continuity in public health services.
