Nigeria Association of Resident Doctors Threatens to Proceed with Nationwide Strike Despite Court Injunction in Abuja

The Nigeria Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) is signaling that it may move forward with its planned nationwide strike set for January 12, 2026, unless a decision by its National Executive Council (NEC) changes the course.

This announcement comes amid heightened tensions between the association and the Federal Government over stalled negotiations.

NARD President Speaks Out

During a Friday interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, NARD President Dr. Mohammad Suleiman explained the association’s stance.

He emphasized that members remain resolute despite a recent court order attempting to block the strike.

Court Restraining Order

Earlier reports from PUNCH Online highlighted that the National Industrial Court in Abuja had issued an interim injunction restraining NARD and two of its officials from engaging in any industrial action starting January 12, 2026.

The suit, marked NICN/ABJ/06/2026, was filed by the Federal Government and the Attorney-General of the Federation, targeting NARD, Dr. Suleiman, and Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim.

Government Negotiations Under Scrutiny

Speaking via telephone during the programme, Dr. Suleiman expressed frustration with the government, accusing it of lacking good faith during negotiations.

He recalled that NARD had earlier suspended a strike in November 2025 following a Memorandum of Understanding signed on November 27, 2025.

“The strike was initially scheduled to start on December 27,” Suleiman said.

“The NEC postponed it, and at the start of this year, we agreed on further days.

But now I hear on social media that a court injunction has been served and ‘no work, no pay’ documents are being circulated.

Negotiations should happen in good faith. Once you start bringing out armories like this, it’s clear you’re not negotiating sincerely.”

Strike Plans Remain Firm

When asked whether NARD would honor the court injunction, Suleiman was clear: the strike will go ahead unless the NEC decides otherwise.

He stressed that talks with the Federal Government are ongoing and expressed cautious optimism that the dispute could be resolved over the weekend.

“We are still in discussions with the government’s team.

Hopefully, between tonight and Sunday, we can reach proper resolutions,” he said.