Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has approved the extension of the retirement age for medical and veterinary doctors in the state civil service from 60 to 65 years, as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery and address workforce shortages.

Under the new policy, the maximum years of service for the affected professionals have also been increased from 35 to 40 years, whichever comes first. The policy takes retrospective effect from January 1, 2026.

The decision was approved at the Kebbi State Executive Council meeting held on Monday at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Establishment, Pension and Training, Auwal Dogondaji, said the policy was designed to retain experienced medical professionals whose expertise remains critical to the state’s healthcare system.

According to him, the previous retirement age of 60 often led to the exit of highly skilled specialists, surgeons and consultants who are usually at the height of their professional careers between the ages of 55 and 65.

He noted that the extension would enable the state to continue benefiting from the knowledge, experience and mentorship of senior medical practitioners while improving healthcare services across Kebbi.

Dogondaji said the measure forms part of the government’s broader strategy to tackle challenges confronting the health sector, including shortages of medical personnel, the migration of healthcare workers and staffing gaps created by retirements.

The commissioner added that veterinary doctors are also covered under the revised retirement policy, which is expected to boost manpower and strengthen service delivery in both the medical and veterinary sectors.

He expressed confidence that retaining experienced professionals for a longer period would enhance healthcare outcomes and support the training of younger personnel within the state’s health system.