PCN Seals 486 Pharmacy Premises for Various Offences in Niger State.
In line with its mandate, the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has sealed 486 premises for violating relevant regulations in Niger State. This action includes the closure of 69 pharmacies, 127 patent medicine stores, and 290 unlicensed shops.
Dr. Suleiman S. Ciroma, the Head of Enforcement at the PCN headquarters, shared this information during a briefing for journalists at the PCN North Central Zonal office in Minna, following an inspection exercise in the state.
He reported that one individual was arrested and will face prosecution for obstructing PCN inspectors while they performed their duties.
The inspection focused on key areas, including the condition of premises, personnel, pharmaceutical practices, and ethical adherence to ensure safe and standard service delivery.
During the exercise, a total of 672 premises were inspected, consisting of 136 pharmacies and 536 patent medicine stores across nine local government areas: Agaie, Bida, Tafa, Chanchaga, Lapai, Paikoro, Bosso, Suleja, and Gurara.
Dr. Ciroma emphasized that this rigorous enforcement initiative will be carried out simultaneously across the country to ensure that Nigerians have access to safe medicines and that minimum quality assurance standards are met.
The inspections revealed numerous regulatory violations, including the illegal operation of unlicensed premises, non-compliance with established regulations, unauthorized clinical practices, sales of controlled substances, and the improper training of apprentices.
The Head of Enforcement encouraged the public to recognize genuine pharmacies and patent medicine vendors by looking for their current licenses prominently displayed within their premises.
He expressed gratitude for the cooperation of the citizens of Niger State during this successful operation.
The operation aims to eliminate unauthorized pharmaceutical establishments and unqualified practitioners, ultimately helping to reduce the incidence of substandard and falsified medical products in the state and throughout Nigeria.
