*Condoles Okonjo Family Over Matriarch’s Death
DELTA State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the extension of the retirement age for skilled clinical health professionals in state government hospitals from 60 to 65 years, or length of service from 35 to 40 years, whichever comes first
This is with the aim of addressing manpower shortages in public hospitals, retaining experienced medical personnel and strengthening healthcare delivery across the state.
Twenty-six categories of skilled clinical health professionals actively engaged in clinical services in government hospitals will benefit from the policy, including medical officers, nursing officers, pharmacists, medical laboratory scientists, physiotherapists, radiographers, optometrists, psychologists, dental officers, community health officers and audiologists.
The rest are dieticians, medical laboratory technicians, pharmacy technicians, X-ray technicians, dental technologists, dental therapists prosthetic, orthoptist professionals, among others.
The decision was sequel to appeals by the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) and the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Delta State, which sought the policy adoption following its approval at the federal level.
Under the implementation guidelines, eligible officers seeking to benefit from the extension must apply through their respective Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) six months before attaining the age of 60 or completing 35 years in service, and are also required to present a medical certificate of fitness.
The CMDs are expected to forward the applications to the Ministry of Health for screening and approval by the commissioner in charge.
The policy does not, however, cover skilled clinical health professionals serving in ministries and extra-ministerial departments, as the extension is specifically intended for those actively engaged in clinical practice in government hospitals.
This is aimed at retaining experienced personnel whose skills and institutional knowledge are important to the effective operation of public health facilities, as well as allow eligible and medically fit clinical personnel to remain in service for an additional five years, thereby preserving professional expertise within the government hospital system.
The policy will take effect from the date of the governor’s approval, subject to the prescribed application, screening and approval procedures.
Meanwhile, the governor has commiserated with the Okonjo family of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Council over the death of their matriarch, Kamene Okonjo, who passed on Friday, October 23, at the age of 96.
Oborevwori, in a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, on Monday, October 26, described the late professor as a distinguished scholar whose contributions to academia, women’s empowerment and society would remain indelible.
While expressing grief over her demise, the governor acknowledged the deceased’s remarkable life and enduring contributions to humanity, adding that her scholarship and advocacy for women’s rights had earned her recognition beyond Nigeria, while her humility, compassion and commitment to service distinguished her as a woman of exceptional character.
He also acknowledged her invaluable role as a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, noting that her values and accomplishments would continue to inspire generations.
He extended his condolences former minister of Finance and current Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, HRM, Ifechukwude Okonjo II; and other members of the immediate, extended Okonjo family and the kingdom, praying God to grant them the strength to bear the loss.
