In a decisive move to strengthen healthcare quality, the Anambra State Ministry of Health has sealed 54 hospitals and clinics across the state for engaging in unprofessional and unsafe medical practices. The enforcement, carried out between 2023 and 2025, aims to protect patients, improve service delivery, and ensure that all health facilities meet professional and regulatory standards.

Why the Facilities Were Closed

The Ministry of Health explained that the closures targeted facilities that were:

• Operating without proper licensing or approvals

• Engaging in unprofessional conduct and malpractice

• Maintaining poor hygiene standards

• Employing unqualified medical personnel

“The safety of our citizens is non-negotiable. Any facility found compromising professional standards will face the full weight of the law,” said Dr. Afam Obidike, Commissioner for Health.

The action affects both public and private healthcare providers, demonstrating the government’s commitment to maintaining high healthcare standards across the state.

Partial Re-openings

• Out of the 54 sealed facilities, 15 have reopened after meeting the required standards.

• Reopened facilities underwent rigorous inspections to verify compliance in hygiene, staff qualification, and service delivery.

“Facilities that show willingness to comply with regulations are allowed to reopen. This ensures a people-centered health system,” Dr. Obidike stated.

Broader Health Sector Reforms

The shutdowns are part of Anambra State’s broader healthcare reform agenda, including:

• Expansion of Anambra State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (ASEMSAS), launched in May 2023

• Growth from 10 ambulances at inception to over 60 units, covering all 21 local government areas

• Deployment of 315 tricycle ambulances for rural emergency services and maternal transport

• Introduction of 7 boat ambulances to improve emergency response in riverine communities

“Our approach focuses on both regulating healthcare providers and expanding emergency medical services to underserved communities,” said Dr. Obidike.

Past Enforcement Actions

Anambra State has a history of strict regulation:

• In August 2025, Mercy Maternity and Clinic in Uruagwu, Nnewi North LGA, was sealed for operating without a license, poor hygiene, and unqualified staff.

• These consistent actions reflect the state government’s ongoing commitment to patient safety and professional standards.

Impact on Residents

• Patient Safety: The closures protect citizens from unsafe and unprofessional medical care

• Healthcare Quality: Encourages hospitals and clinics to maintain high standards

• Trust in the Health System: Builds confidence in the state’s healthcare delivery system

“Residents can now seek medical care knowing that facilities meet minimum standards, which is crucial for public confidence in the health sector,” said a local health advocate.

Key Takeaways

• 54 hospitals and clinics sealed for unprofessional practices between 2023–2025

• 15 facilities reopened after meeting compliance standards

• Enforcement applies to both public and private healthcare providers

• State is expanding emergency medical services, including ambulances, tricycles, and boat units

• Part of Governor Charles Soludo’s healthcare reform agenda

Residents are advised to verify licensed health facilities and report malpractice to the Ministry of Health.