The National Industrial Court has intervened to halt the planned nationwide strike by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), issuing an interim restraining order ahead of the scheduled industrial action.
Justice Emmanuel Subilim issued the order on Friday, ruling on an ex parte motion filed by the Federal Government and the Attorney General of the Federation. The court directed both parties to maintain the status quo, effectively putting the strike—dubbed “TICS 2.0” (Total, Indefinite, and Complete Strike)—on hold.
NARD had earlier announced its intention to resume the strike on January 12, citing the government’s failure to implement a Memorandum of Understanding signed in November 2025. The union’s demands include the reinstatement of five doctors in Lokoja, payment of promotion and salary arrears, full implementation of the professional allowance table, and resolution of house officers’ salary delays, among other welfare issues.
Despite the court order, NARD had previously directed its 91 chapters nationwide to hold press conferences and begin centre-based protests from January 12 to 16, 2026, to amplify their grievances.
This legal intervention highlights the ongoing tensions in Nigeria’s health sector and the increasing use of judicial orders to manage industrial disputes.
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Disclaimer: This report is based on court proceedings and statements from NARD. The situation remains subject to legal and negotiation outcomes. Updates may follow as both parties engage further.
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