The Enugu State Government has sealed multiple unregistered hospitals and pharmaceutical outlets in Enugu and Nsukka during a two-day enforcement operation aimed at curbing quackery and safeguarding public health. The exercise, led by the state’s Ministry of Health alongside medical regulatory bodies, associations, and security agencies, targeted facilities operating without valid licenses or failing to renew annual registrations.
Sam Egwuonwu, Director of Medical Services at the Enugu State Ministry of Health, stated that the joint task force—comprising the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Nursing and Midwifery Council, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, civil society groups, police, and media—sealed over six private hospitals and healthcare institutions. He emphasized that the crackdown aimed to enforce compliance with operational standards, eliminate illegal practices, and boost government revenue through proper registration.
“Healthcare facilities must register with the ministry and renew their licenses annually. Failure to do so renders their operations illegal,” Egwuonwu explained. He added that the initiative prioritizes public safety by ensuring hospitals adhere to approved medical guidelines.
State Health Commissioner Emmanuel Obi described the operation as part of broader efforts to “optimize healthcare delivery” and reduce preventable deaths linked to unqualified practitioners. He warned residents to verify the accreditation of health facilities before seeking treatment, noting that inspections would extend to rural areas.
Innocent Ejike, a representative of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, revealed that the task force also scrutinized the credentials of medical staff. Facilities operating without licensed nurses, doctors, or laboratory personnel were immediately shut down. “Unqualified personnel endanger lives. We will not tolerate such negligence,” Ejike asserted.
