The Anambra State Government has issued a fresh directive requiring all mortuary operators across the state to register their facilities with the Ministry of Health on or before June 5, 2026, or risk facing legal penalties, including a possible one-month jail term.
The order, which forms part of the administration’s ongoing healthcare reforms, was announced under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo. State authorities said the registration exercise is aimed at ensuring proper regulation of mortuary services and improving standards within the health sector.
According to officials, every mortuary facility operating in Anambra must obtain the necessary approvals and update its operational records with the government. Facilities with expired licences have also been directed to renew them before the deadline to avoid sanctions.
The government explained that the move is intended to strengthen oversight, eliminate illegal operations, and ensure that mortuaries comply with established health and safety regulations. Hospitals with mortuary units have equally been instructed to register those units separately from their hospital licences.
Authorities warned that enforcement teams would begin inspections immediately after the June 5 deadline. Operators found running unregistered facilities may face prosecution under relevant state laws, with penalties that could include a one-month prison sentence.
