The Edo State Government has threatened to fine and permanently close health facilities operating below approved standards in the state. This warning was issued by Dr. Adesuwa Urhoghide-Edigin, CEO of the Edo State Health Regulatory and Monitoring Agency (EDOHERMA), during a press briefing in Benin on September 22, 2026. The move aims to ensure compliance and protect patients.
According to Dr. Urhoghide-Edigin, over 20 health facilities previously sealed for not meeting standards are currently taking steps to correct identified inadequacies. The enforcement exercise is not merely punitive but also supportive, encouraging facilities to upgrade and comply. EDOHERMA is responsible for regulating and monitoring healthcare standards across Edo State.
The administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo is committed to ensuring that Edo residents have access to healthcare facilities that meet approved standards. Some facilities were sealed for not being registered with the Edo State Government, while others had obtained registration but failed to maintain the required standards.
Dr. Urhoghide-Edigin stated that the agency is revalidating health facilities to establish their actual status and compliance level. This exercise will also expose quack facilities operated by unlicensed persons. The agency is currently undertaking enumeration and revalidation of health facilities across the 18 local council areas.
Facilities that refuse to upgrade or persistently operate below approved standards will face permanent closure. The agency also plans to introduce enforcement fines for defaulters. However, Dr. Urhoghide-Edigin emphasized that enforcement will be balanced with support for operators willing to comply.
The EDOHERMA boss encouraged health facilities to take the necessary steps to upgrade and comply with the standards. The agency is committed to ensuring that healthcare facilities in Edo State provide quality services to residents. The revalidation exercise is a step towards achieving this goal.
The Edo State Government's move to shut down non-compliant health facilities is a significant step towards improving healthcare in the state. Residents can expect better healthcare services as the government continues to enforce standards and regulations. The agency's efforts will help to weed out quack facilities and ensure that healthcare providers operate within approved standards.
Key points
- Over 20 health facilities previously sealed are taking steps to correct identified inadequacies.
- Facilities that refuse to upgrade will face permanent closure and enforcement fines.
- The revalidation exercise aims to establish the actual status and compliance level of healthcare facilities across Edo State.
