Anambra health facilities sealed as state government shuts 54 hospitals over unprofessional practices, reopening 15 after compliance

The Anambra State Government has sealed no fewer than 54 health facilities across the state over unprofessional practices, reinforcing efforts to raise standards in the healthcare sector, according to the Anambra health facilities sealed update.

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The Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, disclosed this on Monday during a press briefing in Awka, noting that the enforcement exercise covered the period between January 2023 and December 2025.

Obidike explained that 15 of the affected facilities were later reopened after meeting regulatory requirements and complying with directives issued by the Ministry of Health.

He said the action aligns with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision to transform Anambra’s healthcare delivery system to internationally accepted best standards, stressing that quality and patient safety remain non negotiable.

According to the commissioner, the facilities sanctioned include both private and public hospitals, among them the state owned Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Amaku Awka.

Welcoming journalists to the briefing, Obidike highlighted what he described as remarkable progress in emergency medical services and broader health system strengthening under the current administration.

“Since the commissioning of the Anambra State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System on May 11, 2023, we have recorded clear and measurable improvements in emergency response, access to care and patient outcomes,” he said.

Obidike stated that no fewer than 54 health facilities were sealed within the review period for breaching professional standards, adding that the reopening of 15 hospitals followed strict compliance checks.

“These achievements reflect the administration’s firm commitment to safeguarding lives and building a resilient, people centred health system,” he said, describing the reforms as bold and transformative.

He revealed that at inception in May 2023, the emergency medical service operated with only 10 ambulances across a few local government areas.

Today, the fleet has expanded to more than 60 operational ambulances covering all 21 local government areas of the state.

The commissioner added that 588 supplementary emergency transport units have indicated interest in supporting the system, including 315 tricycle ambulances dedicated to rural emergency services and maternal transportation.

He said the state has also deployed seven boat ambulances to cater for riverine communities, ensuring that emergency care reaches previously underserved populations.

According to Obidike, the expanded transport network has made life saving care more accessible across urban centres, rural settlements and riverine areas, marking a decisive shift from aspiration to practical reality.

He further explained that the government has integrated the emergency medical service with public, private and faith based health facilities to strengthen referral systems and reduce delays in treatment.

The Anambra health facilities sealed initiative follows earlier enforcement actions.

In August 2025, the state government sealed Mercy Maternity and Clinic in Uruagwu, Nnewi North Local Government Area, over poor hygiene standards and lack of a valid operating licence.

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At the time, the acting Director of Medical Services, Ugochukwu Chukwulobelu, said the facility was also operating with unqualified medical personnel, a development the ministry described as unacceptable.