We, in what will be considered relief news by patients across the nation, have been informed of the suspension of the nationwide strike called by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), which will commence on Monday, 12 January 2026.
The union made the announcement that it will put on hold the industrial action until 25 January 2026, following ongoing negotiations with the Federal Government for commitments that have been obtained during high-level interactions. 
As reported in a release issued by NARD Secretary General, Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim, “The decision is strategic and conditional. It allows us to objectivity, or rather, objectively, review the progress made towards our demands regarding doctors’ welfare, our arrears, promotion, and working conditions.
The health industry players, including health stakeholders from the Federal Ministry of Health and other government agencies, have been engaged in the talks in the process of preventing disruptions in health services in public hospitals. NARD has stressed that health services will be going on as usual for now, but that the strike may be resumed if the deadlines are not honored.
The suspension comes amid broader concerns about healthcare system stability in Nigeria, where previous strikes had significantly impacted service delivery. The move has been welcomed by civil society groups and patient advocacy organisations advocating uninterrupted access to medical care.
