PCN seals 598 pharmacies, patent medicine shops in Kaduna over regulatory breaches
Pharmacy Council Seals 598 Outlets in Kaduna State to Combat Illegal Drug Distribution
Kaduna, Nigeria — The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has sealed approximately 598 pharmacies and patent medicine shops in Kaduna State as part of a crackdown on illegal drug distribution aimed at protecting public health.
Suleiman S. Chiroma, the National Head of Enforcement, announced the operation during a press briefing on Friday. He stated that the initiative stemmed from widespread non-compliance with pharmaceutical regulations throughout the state.
“The four-day operation inspected 828 facilities across major local government areas, including Kaduna North, Kaduna South, Zaria, Sabon Gari, Giwa, and Igabi,” Chiroma said.
Among the sealed locations, 68 were registered pharmacies, while 456 were patent medicine stores. Additionally, 74 unlicensed outlets were found operating outside legal parameters. Chiroma noted that many of these facilities were illegally selling prescription-only medications. Others faced issues such as inadequate storage conditions, lack of proper licensing, and engagement in unauthorized clinical practices.
During the enforcement effort, two individuals were arrested for serious violations. Several operators received compliance directives for failing to adhere to regulatory standards.
The operation was conducted under the authority of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria Act, which empowers the Council to regulate pharmacy practices and enforce the National Drug Distribution Guidelines. These guidelines ensure that medications are distributed through authorized channels and maintained under conditions that ensure their safety, quality, and effectiveness.
Despite the extensive crackdown, the Council reported encouraging compliance metrics. Only 9% of the inspected premises were found to be operating illegally, while 28% complied fully with regulatory requirements. Additionally, 45% of the pharmacies visited were determined to be in good standing, and 28% of patent medicine vendors were compliant with all regulations.
Chiroma emphasized that the initiative is part of broader health sector reforms advocated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at enhancing access to safe and quality healthcare. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, has also underscored the importance of robust regulatory oversight in the pharmaceutical sector.
The PCN reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing enforcement actions nationwide to eradicate substandard and counterfeit medicines. The Council urged the public to purchase medications only from licensed providers that display valid certification.
The Pharmacy Council expressed gratitude to the residents of Kaduna State for their cooperation during the operation, emphasizing that public support is vital for the success of efforts to improve the pharmaceutical landscape.
