Cross River Governor Proposes Raising Doctors’ Retirement Age to 65 in Major Healthcare Reform
Governor Otu Announces Plan to Retain Skilled Medical Professionals
Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu has unveiled plans to extend the retirement age for doctors from 60 to 65 years as part of comprehensive healthcare reforms. The proposed change aims to strengthen the state’s medical workforce and combat the ongoing brain drain of skilled professionals.
Addressing the Medical Skills Shortage
Governor Otu made the announcement during a meeting with national officers of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) in Calabar. He emphasized that the extension would help retain experienced clinicians while facilitating knowledge transfer to younger doctors.
“In view of the realities we face, especially the shortage of skilled hands, we are seriously considering reviewing the retirement age for doctors from 60 to 65 years,” Governor Otu stated. “This will help us retain valuable experience within our system.”
Comprehensive Healthcare System Overhaul
The Governor outlined his administration’s multi-pronged approach to healthcare reform, beginning with strengthening primary healthcare as the foundation of service delivery. He assured that secondary and tertiary healthcare institutions would also receive attention.
Ethical Standards and Professional Responsibility
Governor Otu stressed that sustainable healthcare development requires both policy changes and professional accountability. He urged medical practitioners to uphold ethical standards to rebuild public trust and reduce emigration of skilled professionals.
“The medical profession demands both ethical and professional discipline. When these are upheld, they will inspire trust in the system,” the Governor emphasized.
Balancing Development Priorities
While committing to healthcare improvements, Governor Otu appealed for understanding as his administration works to balance competing needs across education, infrastructure, and agriculture sectors. He promised gradual implementation of improved salary structures for medical professionals.
Medical Community Responds
Dr. Abdulrauf Tajudeen of NARD commended the Governor for implementing 70% of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) but urged full parity with federal salaries to prevent internal migration of doctors.
Local medical leaders including Dr. Emmanuel Ogar and Dr. Ezoke Epoke praised the administration for clearing salary arrears, supporting outreach programs, and establishing a State Hospital Management Board to regulate healthcare services.
Building a Resilient Health System
Governor Otu concluded by emphasizing his administration’s commitment to long-term healthcare improvements: “We may not solve everything overnight, but we are moving with intent, purpose, and compassion for our people.”
The reforms come as Cross River State hosts NARD’s National Executive Council meeting, showcasing its growing influence in national medical affairs.
Source: Independent Nigeria