In fulfilment of its mandates, the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has sealed no fewer than 486 premises for contravening relevant regulations, including 69 pharmacies, 127 patent medicine stores, and 290 unlicensed shops in Niger State.

The Head of Enforcement, PCN Headquarters, Dr. Suleiman S. Ciroma, made the disclosure while briefing journalists at the PCN North Central Zonal office in Minna after the inspection exercise in Niger State.

He stated that one person was arrested and would be prosecuted for obstruction of PCN inspectors in the discharge of their duties, while the inspection was focused strategically on core areas of premises, personnel, pharmaceutical practice, and adherence to the ethics to ensure safe and standard service delivery.

Suleiman Ciroma revealed that a total of 672 premises, comprising 136 pharmacies and 536 patent medicine stores, were inspected within nine local government areas, including Agaie, Bida, Tafa, Chanchaga, Lapai, Paikoro, Bosso, Suleja, and Gurara.

He maintained that the rigorous enforcement exercise would be held simultaneously across the country in order to ensure Nigerians have access to good medicine and compliance with the minimum standards for quality assurance.

According to Ciroma, the inspection uncovered various regulatory breaches, including illegal operation of unlicensed premises, non-compliance with regulations, unauthorised clinical practice, sales of controlled drugs, and training of apprentices, among others.

The Head of Enforcement insisted that genuine pharmacies and PPMVs can be identified by the prominent display of their current licenses within their premises, while urging the public to look out for this critical indicator of legitimacy.

He, therefore, appreciated the cooperation of Niger State citizens for the successful exercise aimed at eliminating unauthorised pharmaceutical premises and unqualified practitioners, which will help to reduce the incidence of substandard and falsified medical products in the state and Nigeria.