The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) has lauded President Bola Tinubu for approving an increase in the retirement age for medical consultants to 70 years and other core clinical healthcare professionals to 65 years.
MDCAN President, Prof. Mohammad Aminu, expressed appreciation for the policy shift while addressing journalists in Jos, Plateau State. He credited the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, for playing a pivotal role in securing the approval and urged swift formalization of the decision.
“For years, MDCAN has been at the forefront of advocating for this extension to curb brain drain, enhance knowledge transfer, and improve healthcare delivery,” Aminu stated.
He emphasized that the increase would allow consultants to serve up to 35 years, aligning with other civil servants. Citing the lengthy process of medical training, he explained that most consultants attain their roles between the ages of 34 and 40, meaning the previous retirement age of 60 cut their active service years short.
Aminu also highlighted the financial struggles of Nigerian doctors, noting that the devaluation of the Naira has significantly reduced consultants’ earnings from an equivalent of $5,000 in 2014 to just $500 as of November 2024. He linked this economic downturn to the ongoing exodus of medical professionals seeking better pay abroad.
With the government now addressing key concerns, including salary arrears under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), MDCAN pledged to reciprocate by ensuring continued quality healthcare service, training, and research.
“We remain committed to supporting the government’s healthcare goals and providing Nigerians with top-tier medical services,” Aminu affirmed.
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