By Simeon OSAJIE
The Edo State Health Regulation and Monitoring Agency (EDOHERMA) has urged residents to always verify the registration status of private healthcare facilities before seeking treatment, as the agency marks five months of operations.
The Chief Executive Officer of EDOHERMA, Dr. Adesuwa Urhoghide said in a statement that the call is aimed at protecting residents from unsafe and substandard healthcare services while strengthening public confidence in the state’s health sector through effective regulation and monitoring.
She said the agency was established after Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo signed the Edo State Health Regulation and Monitoring Agency Bill into law on December 5, 2025, to regulate all establishments where health-related procedures are carried out.
According to her, the agency was created to close regulatory gaps that had previously allowed unregistered operators and unqualified persons to provide health-related services without adequate oversight.
Dr. Urhoghide urged residents to confirm the registration status of private hospitals, clinics, and other health-related establishments through the Health Facilities Search tool on the agency’s website, www.edohermareg.com.ng, before receiving treatment.
“No resident should walk into a private healthcare facility that can not be found on the EDOHERMA register. Choosing a registered and compliant facility protects patients and their families from unsafe and substandard care,” she said.
Going further, she warned that the agency would clamp down on unverified health advertisements, particularly those by self-acclaimed traditional healers and unregistered practitioners aired on radio and television.
According to her, broadcast organisations should demand proof of EDOHERMA approval before airing health-related advertisements, describing the measure as part of ongoing efforts to eliminate quackery and sanitise the healthcare sector.
Dr. Urhoghide added that Edo State is positioning itself as a credible destination for medical tourism through improved healthcare standards, functional medical equipment, and proper verification of health professionals.
She noted that EDOHERMA is one of the key initiatives under the Health pillar of Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, which also focuses on security, infrastructure, natural resources and Agriculture, and Education.
Speaking on the agency’s five-month milestone, Dr. Urhoghide said it reflects the Edo State Government’s sustained commitment to strengthening healthcare regulation, enhancing patient safety, and ensuring that every resident has access to safe and quality healthcare services.