The Delta State Government has raised the retirement age for skilled clinical health professionals in its hospitals to 65 years, in a move aimed at retaining experienced personnel and addressing manpower shortages in the health sector.

The policy, approved by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, also increases the maximum length of service from 35 to 40 years, whichever comes first.

The extension covers 26 cadres of clinical health professionals directly involved in patient care in state-owned hospitals.

According to the state government, the measure is intended to curb the loss of skilled medical personnel, preserve institutional experience and strengthen healthcare delivery across Delta State.

Eligible officers seeking the extension are required to apply through their respective Chief Medical Directors six months before reaching the existing retirement age of 60 or completing 35 years in service.

Their continued employment will be subject to a satisfactory medical fitness assessment by the state Ministry of Health.

The government clarified that the policy does not cover administrative personnel working in ministries and extra-ministerial departments, as it is restricted to clinical professionals providing direct patient care in public hospitals.