The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, PCN, has shut down 666 unregistered medicine shops in Kaduna State for violating National Drug Distribution Guidelines.
The enforcement action began earlier this week, targeting open drug markets and unregistered locations.
PCN Director of Enforcement, Stephen Esumobi, briefed newsmen in Kaduna on Thursday, explaining the initiative’s goals.
The crackdown aimed to ensure safe and effective medicine distribution, safeguard public health, and prevent harmful substance sales.
Esumobi revealed that a total of 895 premises were visited, including 47 pharmacies, 313 patent medicine shops, and 306 illegal medicine shops.
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He said during the enforcement, 9 compliance directives were issued to owners of establishments operating unlawfully.
The pharmacist stated that 666 premises were sealed, including 47 pharmacies, 313 patent medicine shops, and 306 illegal medicine shops.
He said PCN will not tolerate medicine sales in open drug markets and unregistered locations.
According to Esumobi unregistered medicine shops in open markets pose significant risks to public health due to substandard storage conditions.
He said medicines sold in these locations may no longer be fit for human consumption due to degradation of active ingredients.
Esumobi emphasized that PCN will take further action against non-compliant medicine dealers and assist those who wish to adhere to regulations.
The crackdown highlights the PCN’s efforts to protect public health and ensure safe medicine distribution in Kaduna State.
