PCN Shuts 572 Pharmacies in Plateau for Non-Compliance

The Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) has conducted an enforcement exercise in Plateau, resulting in the closure of 572 pharmacies and patent medicine stores. This operation, which began on Monday and lasted four days, uncovered significant non-compliance, with 60% of the 778 inspected premises failing to meet regulatory standards.

The inspections covered various local government areas, including Jos North, Jos South, Mangu, Shendam, Barkin Ladi, Qua Pan, and Bassa. Among the sealed premises were 120 pharmacies, 372 patent medicine stores, and 80 illegal medicine outlets.

Dr. Suleiman Chiroma, head of the enforcement department, stated that the exercise was conducted in line with the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria Act and the National Drug Distribution Guidelines (NDDG). The aim is to sanitize the nation's drug distribution system and ensure that medicines are handled by qualified, licensed professionals.

The findings revealed several disturbing practices that could endanger public health and compromise the integrity of the pharmaceutical sector.