The Anambra State Ministry of Health has directed all mortuary operators in the state to register their facilities and renew expired licences in line with the state’s Public Health Law.
In a public notice issued on Monday, the Director of Medical Services, Dr Chukwulobelu Ugochukwu, said unregistered mortuaries must begin the registration process immediately. Facilities with expired registrations or those due for renewal were also told to regularize their status without delay.
The directive applies to all mortuary facilities operating illegally or without proper approval. Hospitals that provide mortuary services were instructed to register their mortuary units separately, regardless of the hospital’s own registration status.
According to the ministry, the exercise is part of the state government’s healthcare reform agenda to sanitize and strengthen the health sector. Officials said the move will improve regulatory oversight, maintain standards in mortuary practice, and help control the spread of infectious diseases during outbreaks and pandemics.
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The ministry also noted that proper registration would curb unlawful activities linked to the improper handling and mutilation of corpses. It is currently updating its database of registered facilities to enhance monitoring and compliance.
Operators have until June 5 to complete registration and licence renewal. The ministry warned that full enforcement and inspection exercises will begin after the deadline, with sanctions imposed on defaulters and illegally operating facilities.
It appealed to stakeholders to support efforts aimed at improving healthcare service delivery in the state.
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