The Anambra State Ministry of Health has directed all proprietors and operators of mortuaries in the state to register their facilities and renew expired licences in line with the Public Health Law.
The directive is contained in a public notice issued by the Director of Medical Services, Dr. Chukwulobelu Ugochukwu, on behalf of the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike.
According to the notice, all unregistered mortuaries currently operating in the state must immediately begin the registration process. Facilities with expired registrations or those due for renewal have also been directed to regularise their status without delay.
The ministry stated that hospitals providing mortuary services must register their mortuary units separately, regardless of the hospital’s registration status.
It stressed that the directive applies to all mortuary facilities operating illegally or without proper approval in the state.
The ministry explained that the exercise is part of the state government’s healthcare reform agenda aimed at sanitising and strengthening the sector. It noted that the move would improve regulatory oversight, maintain standards, control the spread of infectious diseases, and curb unlawful activities related to corpse handling.
“The ministry is updating its database of registered mortuary facilities across the state to enhance monitoring, regulation, and compliance with public health regulations. Affected operators are given until June 5 to complete their registration and licence renewal processes,” the notice said.
“Full enforcement and inspection exercises will commence across the state after the deadline, with appropriate sanctions imposed on defaulters and illegally operating facilities in accordance with the law.”
The ministry appealed to stakeholders to support efforts aimed at improving healthcare service delivery in the state.
