BIRNIN KEBBI, KEBBI STATE — The Kebbi State Government has approved an extension of the retirement age for medical and veterinary doctors from 60 to 65 years, while also increasing the maximum years of service from 35 to 40 years, as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery and address manpower shortages in the state.
The decision aligns with similar measures adopted in parts of the country to retain experienced healthcare professionals and ensure continuity in critical medical services. State officials said the policy is expected to help bridge workforce gaps in hospitals, clinics, and veterinary institutions.
According to the government, the extension will enable qualified doctors to continue contributing their expertise for a longer period, particularly at a time when the health sector is facing challenges related to the recruitment and retention of skilled personnel.
Authorities noted that experienced medical practitioners play a vital role in mentoring younger professionals, improving service delivery, and supporting specialised healthcare services that may otherwise face staffing constraints.
The policy is also expected to benefit veterinary services, where shortages of trained professionals have affected animal healthcare, livestock management, and disease control programmes in some areas.
Government officials said the move reflects a commitment to strengthening the state’s healthcare system by ensuring that valuable expertise is not lost prematurely through mandatory retirement. They added that extending service years would help maintain institutional knowledge while providing time to train and integrate new professionals into the workforce.
Healthcare stakeholders have welcomed the development, describing it as a practical response to persistent workforce shortages affecting the medical sector. Some experts argue that retaining experienced practitioners can help improve patient care, especially in underserved communities where access to healthcare personnel remains limited.
The extension is also expected to reduce pressure on healthcare facilities struggling with staffing shortages, particularly in specialised fields where qualified professionals are not readily available.
Observers note that many states continue to face challenges related to the migration of healthcare workers to other countries in search of better opportunities, making workforce retention an increasingly important policy issue.
The Kebbi State Government emphasized that the measure forms part of broader efforts to enhance healthcare delivery, improve access to medical services, and strengthen public institutions responsible for human and animal health.
Officials further stated that the policy would be implemented in accordance with relevant public service regulations and guidelines to ensure a smooth transition for affected personnel.
As the state seeks to improve healthcare outcomes, authorities expressed confidence that retaining experienced doctors for longer periods will contribute to better service delivery and help address critical workforce needs across the sector.
