Anambra State Shutters 54 Healthcare Facilities for Regulatory Breaches

In a sweeping regulatory action, the Anambra State Government has closed 54 hospitals and clinics across the state over the past three years for various unprofessional practices.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, disclosed the information during a press briefing in Awka on Monday. He clarified that 15 of the facilities have since been reopened after complying with the government’s directives.

According to Obidike, the enforcement is part of Governor Charles Soludo’s broader initiative to elevate healthcare delivery standards in the state. The sealed facilities include the state-owned Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital in Amaku-Awka.

“These actions reflect the administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and building a resilient, people-centred health system,” Obidike stated.

The commissioner balanced the report on enforcement with updates on significant investments in emergency medical services. He noted that the Anambra State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (ASEMSAS), launched in May 2023, has expanded from an initial fleet of 10 ambulances to over 60, now covering all 21 local government areas.

The system has also integrated hundreds of supplementary transport units, including tricycle and boat ambulances, to improve access in rural and riverine communities.

This development follows earlier enforcement actions, such as the closure of an unlicensed maternity home in Nnewi last year for operating under poor hygiene standards with unqualified personnel.