The Anambra State Government has commenced a comprehensive review of its public health laws as part of efforts to strengthen disease control, food safety, sanitation and emergency response across the state.
The initiative is anchored on the proposed Public Health Security Bill, which is undergoing an intensive review at a four-day stakeholders’ meeting holding from October 27 to 30, 2026, at Cardinal Hotel, Awka.
The meeting brings together representatives of government ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Resolve to Save Lives (RTSL), civil society organisations and development partners to review the draft legislation and ensure it addresses the specific public health needs of Anambra State.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, said the proposed legislation would address critical gaps in infectious disease control, food safety, sanitation and nuisance control.
Obidike stressed the urgency of updating the state’s obsolete Public Health Law to improve coordination, preparedness and response during public health emergencies.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr. Law Mefor, described the proposed bill as an important component of the state’s value reformation agenda, noting that it aligns with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s commitment to promoting responsible behaviour and protecting lives.
Dr. Mefor expressed concern over the circulation of fake drugs, adulterated food products and alcoholic beverages in the state. He maintained that the proposed law must clearly define relevant offences and prescribe stringent penalties for individuals and businesses that endanger public safety for financial gain.
He also pledged his ministry’s support for the speedy passage of the bill by the Anambra State House of Assembly.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that the Ministry of Justice, which delivered the opening address, is moderating the deliberations alongside Resolve to Save Lives, while the NCDC presented a legal assessment to guide the review process.
The stakeholders’ meeting is expected to conclude on October 30, with concrete recommendations on disease surveillance, emergency preparedness and public health protection for Ndi Anambra.
The proposed legislation is expected to provide a stronger legal framework for safeguarding public health and improving the state’s capacity to prevent, detect and respond to emerging health threats.
