The Lagos University Teaching Hospital Association of Resident Doctors (LUTH-ARD) has officially backed the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) in its upcoming nationwide strike, scheduled to commence on Monday, January 12, 2026. This crucial decision stems from the Federal Government’s persistent failure to uphold previously signed agreements, impacting the welfare and morale of medical practitioners. The LUTH-ARD’s decision highlights a growing dissatisfaction within the medical community regarding unmet demands and broken promises.
Dr. Gbolahan Adenuga, the President of LUTH-ARD, articulated the reasons behind their solidarity with NARD during a press conference. He emphasized that the strike has become an unavoidable step due to the government’s continued disregard for the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with NARD. Despite numerous engagements and assurances, the implementation of agreed-upon terms has been significantly lacking, pushing resident doctors to this drastic measure.
What is the primary reason for the NARD strike? The primary reason for the NARD strike is the Federal Government’s failure to honor the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) previously signed with the association, leading to worsened welfare conditions and decreased morale among resident doctors.
The strike, dubbed TICS 2.0 (Total, Indefinite and Complete Strike), was announced by NARD following an Emergency National Executive Council meeting. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute, as resident doctors seek to force the government’s hand in addressing their long-standing grievances. The initial strike was suspended on November 29, 2025, after 29 days, based on the signing of the MoU which stipulated a four-week timeline for the government to meet the demands.
The welfare conditions of doctors have been severely impacted by the breach of agreement. This includes issues related to remuneration, working conditions, and other essential benefits that contribute to a sustainable medical career. The LUTH-ARD has voiced that these factors directly affect the quality of care provided to patients.
Resident doctors, who form the backbone of healthcare delivery in many Nigerian hospitals, are facing immense pressure. The lack of adequate support and the constant struggle to have their demands met have led to widespread burnout and a decline in overall morale. This situation is unsustainable for both the doctors and the healthcare system.
How can the government prevent further strikes? The government can prevent further strikes by promptly and transparently implementing all aspects of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NARD, engaging in open dialogue, and demonstrating a genuine commitment to improving the welfare and working conditions of resident doctors.
The specific demands of NARD, which LUTH-ARD is now supporting, encompass a range of critical issues. These include the payment of salary arrears, the provision of adequate medical equipment, and the implementation of a fair and equitable residency training program. The success of the healthcare sector hinges on the well-being and motivation of its medical professionals.
The failure to address these fundamental issues poses a threat to the Nigerian healthcare system. A demotivated and under-resourced medical workforce can lead to compromised patient care and a decline in the overall standard of healthcare services across the nation.
Why is LUTH-ARD backing the NARD strike? LUTH-ARD is backing the NARD strike because of the Federal Government’s continued failure to honor the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) previously signed with NARD, which has worsened the welfare conditions and reduced the morale of resident doctors.
This nationwide strike is a clear signal to the government that the patience of resident doctors has run out. The medical community is united in its call for better treatment and a more supportive healthcare environment. The coming days will be crucial in determining the resolution of this pressing issue.
The commitment to professional dignity and fair labor practices is at the forefront of the LUTH-ARD’s stance. They are urging the government to take immediate and decisive action to resolve the outstanding issues and prevent further disruption to healthcare services.
What is the significance of the TICS 2.0 strike? The TICS 2.0 strike signifies the resident doctors’ determination to secure their rights and improve their working conditions after previous agreements were not met, highlighting a deep-seated frustration with the government’s response.
Is the LUTH-ARD strike about fair labor practices? Yes, the LUTH-ARD strike is fundamentally about ensuring professional dignity and fair labor practices for resident doctors, who feel their welfare and rights have been neglected.
How does the NARD strike affect patient care? The NARD strike significantly affects patient care by reducing the availability of essential medical personnel, potentially leading to delays in treatment, increased waiting times, and a strain on remaining healthcare staff.
What are the key demands of resident doctors? The key demands of resident doctors typically include the payment of owed salaries, improved working conditions, provision of adequate medical equipment, and better welfare packages.
What is the expected outcome of the LUTH-ARD backing NARD? The expected outcome of LUTH-ARD backing NARD is to increase the pressure on the Federal Government to address the demands of resident doctors and to demonstrate a united front within the medical community seeking improved conditions.
