The Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) has taken drastic measures to ensure public health and safety by shutting down 571 pharmaceutical premises in Bauchi State, including pharmacies, patent medicine shops, and illegal medicine shops, found to be operating without proper licenses or violating regulatory standards.
The operation, carried out in 10 local government areas, aimed to curb the sale of counterfeit or expired drugs, prevent treatment failures, and mitigate the risks associated with substance abuse. Common breaches identified by the PCN included operating without registration, poor documentation, and illegal storage and sale of controlled substances.
Pharm. Stephen Esumobi, Director of Enforcement at PCN, emphasized that maintaining medicines’ safety, effectiveness, and quality requires proper storage facilities with controlled temperature and humidity. He stressed that violations of regulations are punishable under the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria Establishment Act 2022, with fines of up to ₦2 million or revocation of licences.
The PCN’s enforcement operation is a critical step in addressing the growing concern of substance abuse in Bauchi State, which has far-reaching consequences for public health, safety, and security. The council’s state and zonal offices will continue rigorous monitoring to ensure compliance with pharmaceutical regulations across the state.
One of the PCN’s objectives is to seek to protect citizens from health risks associated with unregulated pharmaceutical practices, prevent the diversion of controlled substances into the illegal market, and maintain high standards in the pharmaceutical industry.
