Manny Ita
LAGOS, Nigeria — The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has officially declared a “Total, Indefinite, and Complete Strike,” labeled TICS 2.0, effective from 12:00 am on Monday, January 12, 2026. The industrial action follows the expiration of a four-week ultimatum issued to the Federal Government regarding the non-implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding signed in November 2025. NARD President Dr. Mohammad Suleiman confirmed the resolution after an emergency council meeting, citing the government’s failure to address core welfare issues.
The association’s demands include the immediate payment of promotion and salary arrears, as well as the full implementation of the revised professional allowance table. NARD is also seeking the reinstatement of five doctors dismissed from the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, and the re-introduction of specialist allowances. Furthermore, the union is calling for a resolution to persistent salary delays and arrears affecting house officers across the country.
In response to the threat, the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako, stated that the Federal Government has already allocated an additional ₦90 billion annually toward health workers’ allowances. The minister attributed the ongoing friction to “structural and policy issues” rather than a lack of financial commitment from the administration. Despite these assertions, NARD has maintained that its members will withdraw services until their minimum demands are fully met.
While the national health sector faces a potential shutdown, the Lagos State Government has announced a separate public health initiative to vaccinate 10.5 million children against measles and rubella. The 12-day campaign is scheduled to run from January 20 to January 31, 2026, targeting youth between the ages of 9 months and 14 years. Health officials confirmed that vaccination teams will be stationed at schools, religious centers, markets, and primary healthcare facilities throughout the state.
The primary objective of the drive is to reach 95% coverage to mitigate the impact of Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS), which currently affects approximately 10,000 newborns in Nigeria each year. Dr. Adetola Akinpelu, the State Immunization Coordinator, emphasized the urgency of the campaign, noting that “90% of persons who come in contact with anyone with Measles or Rubella will likely be infected.” He added that “with vaccines, this negative impact is neutralized,” urging parents and guardians to utilize the free services provided at designated centers.
