The National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN), Abuja, has stepped in to halt a looming doctors’ strike, issuing an interim injunction against the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) on Friday. The court order bars the association from proceeding with its planned industrial action scheduled for Monday, January 12, 2026.

Presiding Justice E.D. Subilim’s order prohibits “all members and agents of NARD” from initiating, organizing, or participating in any form of industrial action. This includes strikes, work stoppages, go-slows, picketing, or any other activity that may disrupt hospital services. The injunction further restrains the association from taking preparatory steps toward any industrial action until further notice.

The court specified that the interim order will remain effective pending the hearing of the case, which is scheduled for January 21, 2026.

The suit, filed by the Attorney General of the Federation and the Federal Government of Nigeria, names NARD, its President Dr. Mohammed Suleiman, and Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim as respondents. The legal action follows NARD’s earlier threat to embark on a nationwide strike, sparking widespread concerns over the potential disruption of public healthcare services.