The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) recently concluded a week-long enforcement exercise across Edo State, resulting in the sealing of 471 pharmaceutical premises. This significant crackdown targeted illegal and substandard operations within the pharmaceutical sector, aligning with PCN’s steadfast commitment to sanitizing medicine distribution and ensuring the highest standards of public health and safety.

Speaking at a press conference in Benin City, Dr. Suleiman Chiroma, the Council’s Head of Enforcement, detailed the scope of the operation. The exercise covered Oredo, Ikpoba-Okha, Ovia North-East, Egor, and Uhunmwonde Local Government Areas. In total, 743 premises were inspected, comprising 196 pharmacies and 547 patent medicine stores.

The 471 premises sealed were found guilty of various infractions. These included operating without valid licenses, failing to comply with registration renewal requirements, engaging in unauthorized clinical activities, and mishandling controlled substances. Among the sealed establishments were 77 pharmacies, 174 patent medicine stores, and 220 unlicensed shops. Additionally, four other premises received compliance directives, mandating them to rectify specific identified infractions. During the operation, one individual was also arrested for obstructing PCN officers.

Dr. Chiroma emphasized that these enforcement actions were carried out in strict accordance with the PCN’s statutory mandate, as outlined in the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (Establishment) Act No. 31 of 2022. This Act empowers the Council to regulate and control all aspects of pharmacy education, training, and practice throughout Nigeria.

He underscored the critical importance of stringent regulation, stating, “This targeted approach underscores the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of pharmaceutical practice and protecting public health.” Given the inherent potential hazards associated with medicinal products, he stressed the imperative for personnel handling medicines to receive comprehensive training to ensure safe and effective practice. Chiroma concluded by affirming that all premises must undergo rigorous inspection, approval, and licensing, followed by continuous monitoring to ensure ongoing compliance with safety standards and regulations.