The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has announced that President Bola Tinubu has approved an increase in the retirement age for doctors and other healthcare workers from 60 to 65 years.

In a statement on Wednesday, NMA National Publicity Secretary Mannir Bature said the approval was conveyed by Muhammad Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, during a high-level meeting with NMA President Bala Audu and other key stakeholders in the health sector.

The minister will formally present the approval to the Council on Establishment through the Office of the Head of Service for finalization.

The meeting was attended by the leadership of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), and the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU). Discussions focused on improving the welfare of healthcare professionals.

Bature also revealed that Pate confirmed the imminent payment of arrears resulting from the adjustment of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), stating that funds have been secured and disbursement will begin soon.

“The process to effect this correction is at an advanced stage, providing much-needed relief to doctors and other healthcare workers,” he said.

The minister commended healthcare workers for their patience and assured them of the federal government’s commitment to improving their welfare.