The Enugu State Government has sealed several unregistered hospitals and pharmaceutical outlets in the Enugu and Nsukka regions as part of efforts to uphold public health standards.
The enforcement action took place during a two-day monitoring exercise led by the Expanded Joint Inspectorate of the State Ministry of Health, in partnership with relevant regulatory bodies and healthcare associations operating in the state.
Dr. Sam Egwuonwu, Director of Medical Services at the Enugu State Ministry of Health, explained that the operation was aimed at identifying and shutting down health facilities operating without proper registration with the Ministry.
He further stated that the inspection targeted institutions that had failed to renew their annual registration, which is a legal requirement for continued operation.
“The monitoring exercise was successful, resulting in the sealing of more than six private hospitals and health institutions,” he confirmed.
The joint inspection involved representatives from the Nigeria Medical Association, Medical and Dental Council, Midwifery and Laboratory Councils, Association of Nurses and Pharmacists in Enugu, Civil Society Organisations, the Police, and the Media.
“We have two teams, one in Enugu, the capital, and another in Nsukka. The idea is to make all the private health facilities in the state legal and ensure they register with the Ministry of Health.
“And if you register and did not renew, your operation that year is illegal, and by making them register will reduce quackery in the state and generate revenue for the government,” Egwuonwu added.
He reassured residents that the state prioritises their health and safety, noting that the task force will continue to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
Speaking earlier, the State Commissioner for Health, Professor Emmanuel Obi, stated that the monitoring initiative is intended to enhance healthcare delivery across the state and curb fatalities linked to illegal medical practices.
Obi added that the inspection would extend to both urban and rural areas of Enugu State.
He encouraged residents to verify the legitimacy of any healthcare facility before patronising it.
Comrade Innocent Ejike, an official with the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (Enugu Chapter), said the exercise also focused on ensuring that health workers, particularly nurses, are duly licensed.
He stated that facilities lacking qualified medical personnel—including nurses, doctors, or laboratory staff—were shut down immediately.