Oborevwori Extends Health Workers’ Retirement Age To 65 To Tackle Staff Shortages
GOVERNOR Sheriff Oborevwori has approved a new retirement policy that allows eligible clinical health professionals in Delta State-owned hospitals to remain in service until age 65.
The decision raises the previous retirement age of 60 and extends the maximum length of service from 35 to 40 years, whichever limit comes first. It covers 26 designated cadres of skilled clinical personnel engaged in direct healthcare services across government hospitals.
The state government said the change would help tackle persistent staffing gaps and retain experienced medical professionals. It also seeks to curb brain drain, which can weaken hospital operations when skilled personnel leave the public health system.
To qualify, eligible officers must apply through their respective Chief Medical Directors at least six months before reaching 60 years of age or completing 35 years of service. Furthermore, applicants must pass a medical fitness evaluation conducted by the Ministry of Health.
Nevertheless, the extension does not apply automatically to every healthcare-related employee. The policy specifically covers clinical professionals who provide direct patient care in state-owned hospitals.
Administrative staff working in civil service ministries and extra-ministerial departments remain outside the scheme.
The policy could help Delta retain valuable clinical experience for longer. Its practical impact, however, will depend on how the government implements the application process, assesses applicants’ fitness and manages staffing needs across public hospitals.
