The National Industrial Court in Abuja has restrained the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) from embarking on any form of strike or industrial action across Nigeria.

The injunction, granted by Justice Emmanuel Danjuma Subilim, followed an ex parte application filed by the Nigerian government through the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi SAN.

Under the interim order:

• NARD and its members are barred from calling, organising, participating in strikes, go-slows, picketing, or any industrial protest that could disrupt healthcare services nationwide.
• The association is also restrained from taking any preparatory steps for industrial action, effective from January 12, 2026.
• The injunction will remain in force until the hearing of the motion on notice scheduled for January 21, 2026.

The court action comes shortly after NARD threatened a nationwide strike over unresolved issues related to welfare, salaries, and working conditions. The doctors accused the government of neglecting previously signed agreements, claiming that “agreements have been either totally neglected, altered or half implemented.”

NARD defended its members against claims of being agitators, emphasizing that resident doctors are experienced professionals advocating for their legitimate rights. The association stated:

“It is not a crime to be a member of NARD in Nigeria… We are experienced enough to understand that merit doesn’t fetch a lot in Nigeria, and militant enough to boldly say Nigeria gives you what you demand for and not what you deserve.”

The development temporarily averts a nationwide disruption of healthcare services, but tensions remain as discussions continue between the government and NARD.