Kebbi Gov Extends Retirement Age For Medical, Veterinary Doctors To 65

Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has approved the extension of the mandatory retirement age for medical and veterinary doctors in the State Civil Service.

Under the new policy, the retirement age for the affected professionals has been increased from 60 to 65 years, while the years of service have been extended from 35 to 40 years, whichever comes first.

The decision was reached during the Kebbi State Executive Council meeting held on Monday at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi.

The Commissioner for Establishment, Pension and Training, Auwal Dogondaji, disclosed the development while briefing journalists after the meeting.

According to him, the Council observed that the previous retirement policy, which required doctors to retire at the age of 60, often resulted in the loss of highly skilled specialists, surgeons, and consultants who are typically at the peak of their professional experience between the ages of 55 and 65.

“By extending their years of service, the State aims to retain these fit and active professionals so they can continue to make significant contributions to healthcare delivery, training, and mentorship,” he said.

Dogondaji explained that the policy forms part of the Kebbi State Government’s proactive efforts to address persistent challenges in the health sector, including the shortage of medical personnel, the migration of healthcare professionals, and workforce gaps created by retirements.

He further clarified that veterinary doctors are fully covered by the new policy.

“However, to ensure the highest standards of service delivery, the Council stipulated that retention beyond the age of 60 or 35 years of service shall be subject to annual medical fitness certification and satisfactory performance appraisal.

“The new retirement policy takes retrospective effect from January 1, 2026,” he added.