The Anambra State Government has sealed a total of 54 hospitals and clinics across the state between January 2023 and December 2025 for various unprofessional practices and regulatory breaches.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, disclosed this during a press briefing in Awka on Monday. He noted, however, that 15 of the facilities have been reopened after complying with the government’s directives.
According to Obidike, the enforcement action aligns with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision to elevate the state’s healthcare system to international standards. Notably, the list of sealed facilities includes the state-owned Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH) in Amaku, Awka.
“No fewer than 54 health facilities across the state have been sealed between January 2023 and December 2025 over unprofessional practices. But 15 out of the 54 hospitals were reopened recently following compliance with laid-down directives,” the Commissioner stated.
He added that the crackdown reflects the administration’s commitment to “safeguarding lives and building a resilient, people-centred health system.”
Dr. Obidike also highlighted significant improvements in the state’s emergency medical services. He reported 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 operational ambulances deployed across all 21 local government areas.
The system has also integrated 315 tricycle ambulances for rural emergencies and maternal transport, and seven boat ambulances for riverine communities.
“This more than six-fold expansion of emergency transport has ensured that timely, life-saving care is no longer a privilege of a few but a service within reach of residents,” Obidike said.
The Commissioner’s briefing follows previous enforcement actions, including the sealing of Mercy Maternity and Clinic in Nnewi in August 2025 for operating without a licence since 2018, under poor hygiene, and with unqualified personnel.
