FG’s New Retirement Circular Excludes Veterinarians, Challenging Medical-Veterinary Parity
The Federal Government’s December 2025 circular raises the retirement age to 65 for selected clinical health workers but leaves out veterinary doctors and para-professionals. This decision conflicts with decades of established parity between medical and veterinary practitioners under federal service guidelines. The 1994 Parity Circular guaranteed equal salary structures and conditions of service for both professions under CONMESS and CONHESS. The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association and the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development formally petitioned for veterinary inclusion, citing workforce sustainability and public health security. By sidelining veterinary staff, the policy risks undermining zoonotic disease control, food safety, and national biosecurity. Several states already face a severe shortage of veterinarians, and earlier retirements could widen these gaps. A targeted policy review should extend the 65-year retirement age to veterinary professionals. Restoring parity will reinforce Nigeria’s One Health approach and strengthen the health system’s resilience.
Use The App To Win ₦1m
Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.