The Anambra State Government has sealed 54 health facilities across the state for engaging in quack practices and operating below approved medical standards. The enforcement, carried out between January 2023 and December 2025, was announced by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, during a press briefing in Awka.
According to Dr. Obidike, 15 of the affected facilities have since been reopened after meeting regulatory requirements and complying with corrective directives. He noted that the clampdown aligns with Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s drive to reposition the healthcare system and ensure services meet globally accepted standards. Among the facilities sealed was the state-owned Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Anaku-Awka.
Providing an update on the state’s emergency medical response system, the commissioner highlighted significant progress made since the launch of the Anambra State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (ASEMSAS) on 11 May 2023.
At inception, ASEMSAS operated with just ten ambulances serving a limited number of local government areas. As of January 2026, the system has expanded to more than 60 fully operational ambulances covering all 21 LGAs. In addition, 588 supplementary emergency transport units have declared interest in supporting the system, with 315 tricycle ambulances deployed under the Rural Emergency Services and Maternal Transportation (RESMAT) programme to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes in hard-to-reach communities.
Seven boat ambulances have also been introduced to provide swift medical response in riverine areas.
Dr. Obidike described the expansion as “a clear demonstration that emergency medical care in Anambra State has moved from aspiration to reality.” He added that the state has fully integrated ASEMSAS with public, private and faith-based health facilities to ensure seamless referrals and reduce delays in critical care.
The briefing, held on Monday, January 26 at the Jerome Udoji Secretariat, emphasised that the Soludo administration remains committed to building a resilient, inclusive and people-centred health system for all residents of Anambra State.
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