PCN Seals 598 Drug Outlets in Kaduna as Regulators Crack Down on Illegal Operations

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria has sealed 598 pharmaceutical premises across Kaduna State after a major four-day enforcement exercise targeting unlawful drug sales and unsafe practices.

NaijaChoice News gathered that the operation, which spanned 10 local government areas including Kaduna North, Kaduna South, Zaria, Igabi and Chikun, also resulted in the arrest of two vendors for breaching regulatory laws.

Officials inspected a total of 828 premises during the drive. These comprised 123 registered pharmacies, 631 patent medicine stores and 74 unlicensed outlets.

Of the inspected sites, 598 were sealed. The figure included 68 pharmacies, 456 patent medicine stores and all 74 unlicensed facilities discovered.

Head of Enforcement, Dr Suleiman Chiroma, who addressed journalists in Kaduna, said the affected outlets were caught operating without valid licences, stocking prescription drugs in patent shops and engaging in unauthorised clinical services.

Chiroma described the violations as a direct threat to public health. “Such practices exceed their authorised scope and pose significant risks to public safety,” he said.

He noted some improvement in compliance levels. About 28 per cent of the premises inspected met standards, while four compliance directives were issued to operators with minor infractions.

The council warned residents against buying medicines from unlicensed vendors. Chiroma stressed that improper drug use could lead to serious complications or even death, adding, “Drugs are poisons if not properly used. The difference between a drug and a poison is how it is used.”

The PCN reiterated its commitment to sanitising the country’s drug distribution chain. Only facilities run by qualified professionals will be permitted to operate, officials said.

Enforcement actions will continue in other parts of Nigeria to protect citizens from substandard and counterfeit medicines that continue to undermine healthcare delivery nationwide.