The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has sealed 471 pharmaceutical premises in Edo State during a week-long enforcement exercise.
Speaking during a press conference held at the PCN State Office in the Federal Secretariat, Benin City on Friday, the Head of Enforcement, Dr. Suleiman Chiroma, said the crackdown targeted illegal and substandard operations within the pharmaceutical sector and was part of PCN’s ongoing efforts to sanitise medicine distribution and ensure public health and safety.
He said: “A total of 743 premises, comprising 196 pharmacies and 547 patent medicine stores, were inspected. One individual was arrested for obstructing PCN inspectors in the discharge of their duties.
”Consequently, a total of 471 premises were sealed for contravening relevant regulations, including 77 pharmacies, 174 patent medicine stores, and 220 unlicensed shops.”
He noted that the exercise was carried out in Oredo, Ikpoba-Okha, Ovia North-East, Egor, and Uhunmwonde local government areas.
He added that four additional premises were issued compliance directives, mandating them to correct specific infractions identified during inspections.
One person was also arrested for obstructing PCN officers during the enforcement operation.
Chiroma emphasised that the chaotic drug distribution system and the proliferation of unlicensed pharmaceutical outlets continue to pose serious risks to public health.
He noted that untrained individuals operating in unsafe environments contribute to the circulation of substandard and falsified medicines, thereby necessitating robust enforcement interventions.
The enforcement exercise was designed to ensure compliance with professional standards, assess the competency of pharmaceutical personnel, and verify that premises maintain controlled environments for drug storage. According to the PCN, this is essential for preserving the potency and safety of medicinal products throughout the supply chain.
He urged Edo residents and the public to be cautious when purchasing medicines, ensuring they patronise only licensed and approved outlets.
The PCN noted that licensed pharmacies and PPMV shops are required to display their valid licenses clearly within their premises.
As part of the event, the PCN also marked World Pharmacists Day with the theme “Think Health – Think Pharmacist,” extending warm wishes to pharmacists across the globe and reaffirming the Council’s commitment to promoting safe, ethical, and professional pharmacy practice in Nigeria.
- Media Report