By Aideloje Ojo
The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria PCN, has sealed 486 premises for contravening relevant regulations in Niger state.
The Head of Enforcement PCN headquarters, Dr Suleiman S. Ciroma stated in a press briefing in Minna
He explained that 69 pharmacies, 127 patent medicine stores, and 290 unlicensed shops in Niger state have been closed.
He said, “one person was arrested and would be prosecuted for obstruction PCN inspectors in the discharge of their duties”.
According to him, 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.
He explained that a total of 672 premises comprising 136 pharmacies, and 536 patent medicine stores were inspected within 9 local government areas which include Agaie, Bida, Tafa, Chanchaga, Lapai, Paikoro, Bosso, Suleja, 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 for compliance with the minimum standards of quality assurance.
He said, “the inspection uncovered various regulatory breached including illegal operation of unlicensed premises, non compliance with regulations, unauthorized clinical practice, sales of controlled drugs, training of apprentices, among others”.
