PCN shuts down 486 pharmacies in Niger State

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has sealed 486 pharmaceutical premises in Niger State for various regulatory infractions.

Dr. Suleiman Ciroma, Head of Enforcement at PCN headquarters, disclosed this on Friday in Minna while briefing journalists at the council’s North Central Zonal Office.

According to him, the affected premises included 69 pharmacies, 127 patent medicine shops, and 290 unlicensed outlets. One individual was also arrested for allegedly obstructing inspectors during the exercise and will face prosecution.

Ciroma explained that the inspection covered 672 premises—comprising 136 pharmacies and 536 patent medicine shops—across nine local government areas: Agaie, Bida, Tafa, Chanchaga, Lapai, Paikoro, Bosso, Suleja, and Gurara.

He noted that the enforcement targeted compliance with professional ethics, licensing, personnel standards, and pharmaceutical practices to ensure safe and quality service delivery.

The PCN enforcement head said the exercise uncovered several violations, including illegal operations of unlicensed outlets, unauthorised clinical practices, non-compliance with regulations, sale of controlled drugs, and unapproved training of apprentices.

Ciroma urged the public to patronise only licensed premises, identifiable by the display of current licences, and commended Niger residents for their cooperation. He added that the council’s nationwide enforcement would help curb the circulation of substandard and falsified medicines.