The Nigerian House of Representatives has passed for a second reading a bill aimed at extending the retirement age of health workers from 60 to 65 years, and their years of service from 35 to 40.
Dr. Wale Hammed (APC, Lagos), who sponsored the bill, argued that the proposed change would help retain skilled medical professionals, addressing the shortage in the healthcare sector due to migration—a trend known as the Japa syndrome.
This adjustment, he emphasized, allows experienced health workers to continue contributing to the sector while mentoring younger colleagues.
Dr. Hammed noted that while migration cannot be curtailed due to individual rights, extending retirement would support those who choose to work locally.
He highlighted that the healthcare system faces critical challenges, including a severe shortage of professionals. He pointed out that Nigeria has previously implemented similar measures for judges, lecturers, and teachers, raising their retirement age to strengthen public service retention.
The proposed legislation, Dr. Hammed added, could significantly stabilize the healthcare sector by preserving experienced staff and countering the adverse impact of the exodus of younger health workers seeking better opportunities abroad.
CREDIT: Allneeds, THE NATION
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