The Nigerian government has approved the appointment of doctors, nurses, and other clinical healthcare workers as contract staff after reaching their compulsory retirement age or years. The circular, issued by the Federal Ministry of Health and dated October 5, 2023, directs health institutions to comply with the circular earlier issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF).
The OHCSF had rejected a proposal to increase the retirement age of Medical/Dental Consultants and other health professionals from 60 to 70 and 75, respectively. The circular highlighted concerns about health professionals leaving the country due to pecuniary considerations and unfavorable conditions of service, not retirement age. It also expressed dissatisfaction with health workers’ work ethic and the ongoing brain drain.
In response, the OHCSF approved that clinical health workers who have reached compulsory retirement age may be given contract appointments on the same salary scale level they retired on if desired and deserved. The government is encouraged to engage the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and the Nigerian Medical Association to address concerns and extract commitments from medical professionals.
The circular from the Federal Ministry of Health urges compliance with the OHCSF directive, emphasizing the need for performance management systems to improve work ethics and patriotism among medical professionals. The move aims to address workforce challenges in the health sector and retain experienced healthcare workers within the country.
