Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has revealed plans to raise the retirement age for doctors from 60 to 65 years, as part of broader health sector reforms aimed at improving healthcare delivery and retaining skilled medical personnel.
The governor made the disclosure on Wednesday while addressing members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), who were in Calabar for their July National Executive Council (NEC) meeting.
“In view of the realities we face, especially the shortage of skilled hands, we are seriously considering reviewing the doctors’ retirement age in Nigeria,” Otu said. “This will help us retain valuable experience and facilitate mentoring of younger professionals.”
He emphasised that the sustainability of the health sector requires both supportive policies and ethical conduct from healthcare professionals. He called on doctors to uphold the highest standards to rebuild public trust and reduce the ongoing brain drain.
Otu also assured that his government is gradually implementing a new salary structure to improve medical workers’ welfare, even amid competing priorities in education, agriculture, and infrastructure.
“We are moving with intent, purpose, and compassion,” he said. “Better days are ahead for medical professionals in Cross River.”
In his remarks, NARD President Dr. Osundare Tope—represented by Vice President I, Dr. Abdulrauf Tajudeen—commended the state for approving 70% of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS). He urged the government to strive for parity with the federal structure to curb internal migration.
Cross River NARD Chairman, Dr. Emmanuel Ogar, also praised the governor for supporting the NEC meeting and invited him to attend as Special Guest of Honour.
