Nigerian Medical Association demands 65-year retirement age

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called on the Federal Government to urgently implement a 65-year retirement age for clinical health workers. NMA President Dr. Afekhide Omoti announced the demand during a press briefing in Abuja following the association’s National Executive Council meeting held from August 24 to 28.

The association argues that extending the retirement age is a necessary measure to retain experienced doctors and medical professionals within the country. This comes as Nigeria faces a significant shortage of skilled healthcare personnel due to widespread migration of medical staff.

Beyond retirement age, the NMA highlighted several systemic challenges facing the Nigerian health sector, including insecurity affecting healthcare workers, poor road infrastructure to medical facilities, and difficult working conditions. The association emphasized that while government investment in healthcare infrastructure is important, it must be matched by investments in the workforce to ensure motivated and properly remunerated staff.