The Niger State Private Health Facilities Agency (NiSPHFA) has shut down 15 private health facilities and arrested a man allegedly posing as a medical doctor during an enforcement operation in Suleja Local Government Area.
Dr. Abdullahi Suleiman, Executive Chairman of NiSPHFA, disclosed this during an inspection in Suleja on Saturday, after the agency’s task force conducted inspections of selected private health facilities.
He explained that the operation followed intelligence reports and routine inspections aimed at sanitizing the healthcare sector and protecting residents from unsafe practices.
Suleiman said the task force sealed Ellamara Specialist Hospital after discovering that a suspect was allegedly providing medical services without the necessary qualifications, registration, or valid practicing license.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect, who reportedly dropped out of medical school, had practiced as a doctor in Suleja for about six years.
“The suspect was also said to have been dismissed by a previous employer over credential issues and had been arrested in Cross River State in the past for a similar offence,” he stated.
The chairman emphasized that the enforcement was part of the agency’s commitment to ensuring compliance with healthcare standards and safeguarding public health.
He warned private health facility owners against employing unqualified personnel, stressing that the agency would take action to prevent endangerment of patients.
“The affected facility has been sealed pending investigation, and the suspect has been handed over to security agencies for further action,” he added.
Suleiman also disclosed that a total of 15 facilities were shut during the operation for infractions such as failure to meet standards and licensing requirements.
He urged the public to report any suspicious healthcare practices and reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to regulating private healthcare and ensuring only qualified professionals provide services in the state.
