Governor Nasir Idris approves new policy aimed at retaining experienced medical and veterinary professionals to strengthen healthcare delivery.
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has approved the extension of the retirement age for medical and veterinary doctors in the state civil service from 60 to 65 years.
The State Executive Council also approved an increase in the years of service for the affected professionals from 35 to 40 years, whichever comes first.
Commissioner for Establishment, Pension and Training, Auwal Dogondaji, announced the decision after the Executive Council meeting held at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi on Monday.
According to Dogondaji, the government observed that many highly skilled specialists, consultants, and surgeons are often forced to retire while still at the peak of their careers. He noted that the new policy will help retain experienced professionals, improve healthcare delivery, and strengthen mentorship for younger medical personnel.
The commissioner said the move is part of efforts to address manpower shortages, brain drain, and workforce gaps within the state’s health sector.
He added that veterinary doctors are also covered under the policy, while those retained beyond the previous retirement threshold must undergo annual medical fitness tests and performance evaluations.
Dogondaji disclosed that the policy takes retrospective effect from January 1, 2026, reinforcing the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services across Kebbi State.