PCN Seals 300 Illegal Drug Outlets in Yobe State

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) conducted a four-day enforcement exercise in Yobe State, resulting in the sealing of 300 illegal drug outlets. The operation spanned 10 local government areas, including Damaturu, Potiskum, Nguru, and Fune, where 601 facilities were inspected.

The enforcement led to the closure of 430 premises, which included 20 licensed pharmacies, 110 patent medicine stores, and 300 unregistered outlets. Suleiman S. Chiroma, Head of PCN Enforcement, reported that 50 percent of the inspected premises were operating illegally, with unregistered outlets making up 70 percent of those sealed.

Critical violations identified included unauthorized handling of controlled medicines, poor storage conditions, and the training of unqualified apprentices to dispense drugs. Chiroma emphasized that these practices contribute to antimicrobial resistance and drug abuse.

He noted that only 6% of the inspected premises were registered pharmacies, indicating a significant deficit in pharmaceutical care in Yobe State. Pharm.

Ibrahim Baba Shehu Ahmed, the PCN registrar, reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to health coverage and enforcement against violators.