By Our Reporter
The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has sealed 486 pharmacy and patent medicine premises in Niger State for failure to comply with regulatory standards.
This was announced by Dr. Suleiman S. Ciroma, Head of Enforcement at the PCN headquarters, during a press briefing at the Council’s North Central Zonal office in Minna after a statewide enforcement exercise.
Out of 672 premises inspected, comprising 129 pharmacies and 543 patent medicine shops across nine local government areas: Agaie, Bida, Tafa, Chanchaga, Lapai, Paikoro, Bosso, Suleja, and Gurara, a total of 69 pharmacies, 127 patent medicine stores, and 290 unlicensed outlets were shut down.One individual was also arrested for obstructing PCN inspectors while on duty.
Dr. Ciroma explained that the operation targeted premises standards, personnel, and ethical practices, stressed that the clampdown was necessary to safeguard public health and ensure that only duly registered facilities operate in the state.
He further disclosed that many of the sealed outlets had no registered pharmacists, operated without PCN approval, or fell short of the minimum professional standards required for the sale of drugs. According to him, such practices not only endanger public health but also contribute to the circulation of fake and substandard medicines.
The PCN enforcement team also sensitized operators on the need to register with the Council, employ qualified professionals, and maintain ethical practices. Dr. Ciroma emphasized that the Council will not relent in its mandate to regulate and control the education, training, and practice of pharmacy in Nigeria.
He warned members of the public to patronize only licensed pharmacies and patent medicine stores, noted that purchasing drugs from unregistered outlets poses serious health risks.
“PCN will continue to protect Nigerians from the dangers of drug misuse, quackery, and unwholesome practices. We urge all operators to comply with regulatory provisions or face the full weight of the law,” he stated.
