The Anambra State Government has directed all mortuary owners and operators across the state to register their facilities or renew expired licences as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen regulation in the health sector.
The directive was issued through the state Ministry of Health in a public notice signed by the Director of Medical Services, Chukwulobelu Ugochukwu, on behalf of the Commissioner for Health, Afam Obidike.
According to the notice dated May 29, 2026, operators have until June 5, 2026, to complete the registration or renewal process, after which enforcement and inspection exercises will commence statewide.
The ministry said the directive aligns with the healthcare reform agenda of the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo and is aimed at improving oversight of mortuary operations.
“All concerned operators are given up to June 5, 2026, to complete their registration and renewal processes,” the statement noted.
The government warned that facilities operating without valid registration or licences would face sanctions in accordance with existing laws.
As part of the exercise, the ministry said it is updating its database of registered mortuary facilities to enhance monitoring, regulation and compliance with public health standards across the state.
The notice further clarified that hospitals offering mortuary services must register their mortuary units separately, irrespective of their status as licensed healthcare institutions.
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“All mortuaries currently operating in Anambra State that have not been registered with the Directorate of Medical Services, Ministry of Health, Awka, are required to immediately visit the Department for registration,” the statement said.
It added that facilities with expired registrations or those due for renewal must also regularise their status without delay.
According to the ministry, the initiative forms part of broader efforts to sanitise the health sector, improve regulatory oversight, strengthen disease control measures during outbreaks and curb unlawful practices associated with the handling of human remains.
“The Ministry of Health is presently updating its database of all registered mortuary facilities across the State to ensure effective monitoring, regulation and compliance with the Public Health Law,” the notice stated.
The government reiterated that full enforcement and inspection activities would begin immediately after the deadline, warning that appropriate sanctions would be imposed on defaulters and illegally operating facilities.
“Full enforcement and inspection exercises shall commence across the State, and appropriate sanctions shall be applied against defaulters and illegally operating facilities in accordance with the law,” the statement added.