Abia plans to extend nurses’ retirement age to 65

Abia State Governor Alex Otti announced that the state government will soon update the retirement age for nurses from 60 to 65 years. He shared this during his monthly media session at the Government House in Umuahia on Friday. This change is part of the government’s broader plan to revitalize the health sector, a key focus of his administration.

Otti noted that the retirement age for teachers has already been increased to 65 years. Additionally, the state is moving forward with plans to establish a state-of-the-art medical city, with a committee and location already in place. The project will involve collaboration with international medical missions, including the Extended Hands and Lifted Hands organizations.

The governor emphasized the commitment to this project as a signature initiative aimed at reducing medical tourism. He also highlighted that his administration has managed to operate without borrowing and is exploring opportunities from the African Development Bank and the Islamic Development Bank Group.

Otti briefly mentioned recent achievements in various sectors, including the recovery of palm, rubber, and cocoa plantations that had been privatized by previous governments. He expressed gratitude to the residents for their support and encouraged them to continue contributing to the development of Abia.