Cross River Mulls Raising Doctors’ Retirement Age To 65 — Gov Otu

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has revealed that his administration is considering increasing the retirement age for medical doctors from 60 to 65 years as part of broader efforts to reform the state’s healthcare sector.

Governor Otu made this known on Wednesday while addressing the national leadership of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), who were in Calabar for their July National Executive Council (NEC) meeting.

According to the governor, the proposed policy shift aims to retain experienced clinicians, foster mentorship, and strengthen the state’s healthcare delivery system in the face of ongoing manpower shortages.

“In view of the realities we face, especially the shortage of skilled hands, we are seriously considering reviewing the retirement age of doctors from 60 to 65 years,” Otu stated.

“This will help us retain valuable experience within our system and provide room for mentoring and knowledge transfer to the next generation of healthcare workers.”

He emphasized that sustaining the health sector requires not only policy interventions but also a strong ethical commitment from healthcare professionals. Otu urged doctors to uphold professional standards to help restore public trust and mitigate the exodus of skilled workers from the country.

While acknowledging competing priorities such as education, infrastructure, and agriculture, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare services.

“All sectors must grow together, so we appeal for dialogue and superior reasoning in addressing welfare and sectoral demands,” he said.

“On remuneration, the state government is gradually implementing an improved salary structure, which will ensure better days ahead for medical professionals in the state.”

“We may not solve everything overnight, but we are moving with intent, purpose, and compassion for our people,” he added.

In response, NARD President Dr. Osundare Tope—represented by Vice President 1, Dr. Abdulrauf Tajudeen—commended the governor for approving 70% implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) for doctors in the state.

Tope, however, appealed for full alignment with federal pay levels to stem internal migration and ensure better retention of medical personnel.

Dr. Emmanuel Ogar, Chairman of NARD in Cross River, also expressed appreciation for the state’s support of the association’s NEC meeting and formally invited the governor to serve as the special guest of honour during the weeklong event.