By Erewunmi Peace

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its planned nationwide strike following intervention by the Federal Government.

The association announced the decision after holding an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on Saturday, January 11, 2026. The strike was earlier scheduled to commence on Monday, January 12, 2026, over unresolved welfare and salary-related issues.

According to reports, the suspension followed high-level discussions between the resident doctors and government representatives, including intervention by Vice President Kashim Shettima on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The talks reportedly involved commitments by the government to address the doctors’ demands.

NARD described the decision as temporary and conditional, stating that it was meant to allow time for further negotiations and to monitor the government’s response to the agreed resolutions.

The association also noted that a court injunction restraining the doctors from embarking on industrial action played a role in its decision to suspend the strike.

Resident doctors, however, warned that they may resume industrial action if the government fails to fulfil its promises within the agreed timeframe.

The suspension has brought temporary relief to patients across public hospitals nationwide, as healthcare services are expected to continue uninterrupted while negotiations remain ongoing.