Nigerian Medical Association advocates for 65-year retirement age for clinical health workers

NMA President, Dr. Afekhide Omoti, made this call in Abuja after the association's National Executive Council meeting, which took place from August 24 to 28, 2026. Omoti emphasized that retaining experienced professionals is crucial given Nigeria's shortage of skilled healthcare personnel and the ongoing migration of doctors and other health professionals. He stated that extending the retirement age would serve as an important palliative measure while broader challenges of workforce shortages are addressed.

The NMA also highlighted other issues affecting Nigeria's health sector, including healthcare infrastructure, welfare of health workers, insecurity, and drug and substance abuse. The association stressed that infrastructure investments alone are insufficient without a motivated and adequately remunerated health workforce. They called for the conclusion and implementation of the outstanding collective bargaining agreement between the Federal Government and health workers, and raised concerns about insecurity, citing a medical practitioner from Niger State who has been in captivity for approximately four months.

The NMA also advocated for improved roads to healthcare facilities and declaring drug and substance abuse a national public health priority. Omoti reiterated the NMA's commitment to constructive engagement to find sustainable soluti