Why Tinubu’s 65-Year Retirement Age Policy Is a Game-Changer for Health Workers in Nigeria.
Published: June 12, 2025 | By Kharis Petroleum Resources & Investments
Category: National Policy | Health Workforce Reform
Table of Contents
Overview of the New Retirement Policy
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a major reform in Nigeria’s healthcare workforce management: the retirement age for clinically skilled health workers has now been officially extended from 60 to 65 years.
This new policy was announced by Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, in Abuja. It forms a crucial part of the Renewed Hope Agenda to retain skilled medical personnel and improve healthcare delivery across the country.
“This reform allows Nigeria to keep critical clinical talent in service longer, ensuring better outcomes for our population,” said Prof. Pate.
Who Are Clinically Skilled Health Workers?
The policy targets “clinically skilled” professionals — a group that includes:
Medical Doctors
Surgeons
Registered Nurses
Midwives
Laboratory Scientists
Radiographers
Anesthetists
Pharmacists directly involved in patient care
These are the frontline professionals directly delivering healthcare services in Nigeria’s hospitals and clinics.
Why the Change Was Needed
The retirement age extension for clinically skilled health workers comes in response to two major national challenges:
Brain Drain – Many skilled Nigerian health professionals are emigrating to countries like the UK, US, and Canada in search of better pay and working conditions.
Shortage of Expertise – Health institutions across Nigeria face severe staffing gaps, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.
By extending the retirement age to 65, the government hopes to:
Retain experienced professionals longer
Improve mentoring for younger health workers
Reduce training and recruitment pressures
Related Internal Resource
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Implementation Process
The policy is undergoing formal ratification through:
Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation
National Council on Establishments
Once finalized, the retirement age for all federally employed, clinically skilled health workers will be officially updated in civil service guidelines.
Reactions from Healthcare Stakeholders
The decision has been well received by several healthcare professional bodies, including:
Nigerian Medical Association (NMA)
National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM)
Association of Radiographers of Nigeria
They describe the policy as “long overdue,” especially considering the ongoing exodus of healthcare workers.
“Retaining our experienced clinicians helps strengthen our healthcare system internally. This is a positive step,” said Dr. Eme Okafor, spokesperson for NMA.
Historic Breakthrough: Tinubu Approves 65-Year Retirement Age for Health Workers in Nigeria
Final Thoughts: What This Means for Nigeria’s Future
This historic breakthrough is more than just a change in numbers—it’s a bold statement about the future of Nigeria’s healthcare system. By extending the retirement age for clinically skilled health workers to 65, the government is acknowledging the indispensable value of experienced professionals who have dedicated their lives to patient care.
Longer service years allow institutions to benefit from mentorship, continuity, and a broader talent pool. It also eases pressure on the younger workforce while offering seasoned professionals the dignity and recognition they deserve.
However, the success of this policy hinges on effective implementation, consistent funding, and monitoring. If executed well, this reform could lay the foundation for a more resilient, efficient, and accessible healthcare system in Nigeria.
At Kharis Petroleum Resources & Investments, we continue to support local and international partners with strategic workforce solutions that align with such reforms. Explore our full range of services and insights here.
