President Bola Tinubu has authorized an extension of the retirement age for doctors and other healthcare professionals from 60 to 65 years.
Dr. Mannir Bature, the National Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Medical Association, announced this development in a statement on Wednesday in Lagos.
Bature noted that the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, has been tasked with formally presenting this approval to the Council on Establishment through the Office of the Head of Service for finalization.
He mentioned that Pate shared details of this policy change during a significant meeting with the NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, along with other key stakeholders in the health sector.
The meeting also included representatives from the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, and the Joint Health Sector Unions.
Bature stated that the discussions focused on advancements related to the welfare of healthcare workers in Nigeria.
He added that the coordinating minister confirmed that funds for the arrears linked to the adjustment of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure are ready for distribution.
“The necessary funds have been secured, and payments to beneficiaries will begin shortly,” he said.
Bature also quoted the minister as stating that President Tinubu has approved the necessary adjustments for both the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and the Consolidated Health Salary Structure, following the implementation of the new minimum wage.
“The process to effect this correction is at an advanced stage, providing much-needed relief to doctors and other healthcare workers,” he said.
He stated that after a thorough review conducted by the NMA, authorization has been given to implement new tariffs for healthcare service providers.
“This will particularly benefit members of the Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners and Nurses (ANPMPN), ensuring better financial remuneration and sustainability for healthcare services nationwide,” he said.
Bature noted that the Coordinating Minister expressed gratitude for the patience and cooperation of all stakeholders, reiterating the Federal Government’s dedication to enhancing the welfare of healthcare workers.
He added that Pate highlighted the importance of collaboration in strengthening Nigeria’s health sector.
According to Bature, the participants at the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to unite in advocating for the welfare of healthcare professionals and ensuring the comprehensive implementation of essential reforms.hjgzbnj
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the NMA has been a strong proponent of raising the retirement age for health workers from 60 to 65 years as a means to combat brain drain, facilitate knowledge transfer, and improve the quality of healthcare delivery.
Additionally, various health associations and unions had initiated nationwide strikes due to the failure to implement the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for doctors and healthcare workers.
