The Edo State Health Regulation and Monitoring Agency (EDOHERMA) has called on residents to verify the registration status of private healthcare facilities before seeking treatment, declaring that patronising unregistered establishments exposes patients to unsafe and substandard medical care.
The agency’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Adesuwa Urhoghide, made the call in a statement marking EDOHERMA’s five months of operation, describing effective regulation and monitoring as critical to safeguarding public health and restoring confidence in Edo State’s healthcare system.
She recalled that Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo established the agency after signing the Edo State Health Regulation and Monitoring Agency Bill into law on December 5, 2025, to regulate all facilities where health-related procedures are carried out across the state.
According to Dr. Urhoghide, the creation of EDOHERMA has helped bridge regulatory loopholes that previously enabled unregistered facilities and unqualified individuals to operate without adequate supervision.
She advised residents to confirm the registration status of private hospitals, clinics and other health-related establishments through the Health Facilities Search portal on the agency’s website, www.edohermareg.com.ng](http://www.edohermareg.com.ng), before receiving medical treatment.
“No resident should walk into a private healthcare facility that cannot be found on the EDOHERMA register. Choosing a registered and compliant facility protects patients and their families from unsafe and substandard care,” she said.
The EDOHERMA boss also announced that the agency would intensify its crackdown on unverified health advertisements, particularly those promoted by self-acclaimed traditional healers and unregistered medical practitioners on radio and television stations.
She warned broadcast organisations to insist on proof of EDOHERMA approval before airing health-related advertisements, saying the measure is aimed at eliminating quackery and sanitising the healthcare sector.
Dr. Urhoghide further disclosed that Edo State is strategically positioning itself as a destination for medical tourism through stricter healthcare regulation, improved standards, functional medical equipment and proper verification of health professionals.
She noted that EDOHERMA remains one of the flagship initiatives under the Health component of Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, which also prioritises Security, Healthcare, Infrastructure, Natural Resources and Agriculture, and Education.
Reflecting on the agency’s five-month milestone, Dr. Urhoghide said the achievement underscores the Edo State Government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening healthcare regulation, enhancing patient safety and guaranteeing access to safe, quality and professionally regulated healthcare services for all residents.
