Determined to combat illegal drug activities, the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria has taken decisive action by sealing 581 pharmacies across eight local government areas in Adamawa State.
The targeted local governments include Yola-North, Yola-South, Mubi-North, Mubi-South, Girei, Numan, Michika, and Demsa.
In a recent address to the media, the Director of Enforcement at the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria reported that these pharmacies were found to be operating below the required standards set by the council.
“A total of 581 premises were sealed, which includes 35 pharmacies, 325 patent medicine shops, and 221 illegal medicine shops,” the Director stated.
The enforcement of these measures aims to ensure compliance among pharmaceutical operators. The Director emphasized the need for continued monitoring of the pharmaceutical outlets in the state, indicating that the council’s objective is to hold all violators accountable.
Despite numerous discussions with operators since 2022, many have still failed to adhere to the Pharmacy Council’s directives, leading to this decisive action.
It was highlighted that a significant number of illegal medicine dealers are involved in the sale of harmful substances, worsening the social and security issues related to the misuse of these medicines.
The Director issued a stern warning that any pharmacy lacking a qualified superintendent pharmacist to oversee the dispensing of ethical medicines will face severe legal repercussions.
Additionally, it was noted that many pharmacies are operating in unsuitable locations for pharmaceutical businesses, with the council insisting that these operators must relocate or face consequences.
