The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has expressed concern over the increasing number of unauthorized pharmaceutical outlets operating across the country, alleging that certain government officials are contributing to the problem by disregarding established regulatory procedures.
PSN President, Pharm. Ayuba Ibrahim Tanko, said some state authorities have allegedly permitted individuals without legal authorization to register and run pharmaceutical facilities, contrary to provisions of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) Act 2022 and other relevant drug control laws.
Tanko noted that the issue is particularly troubling in Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, where, according to the society, individuals lacking the required statutory authority have reportedly taken on responsibilities reserved exclusively for the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria.
The PSN emphasized that existing legislation designates the PCN as the sole regulatory body empowered to license pharmaceutical premises and oversee pharmacy practice nationwide.
The society also commended recent Federal High Court rulings delivered in Ibadan and Calabar against operators of illegal pharmaceutical businesses. It described the judgments as important milestones in efforts to combat counterfeit medicines, unqualified practice, and unsafe drug distribution networks.
In addition, the organization raised concerns about the emergence of informal training pathways through which some individuals claim healthcare expertise without obtaining recognized professional qualifications. According to the PSN, such practices often involve unaccredited apprenticeships and unauthorized training arrangements within private healthcare settings.
The pharmacists’ body warned that these activities undermine regulatory standards and could expose the public to significant health risks by encouraging the circulation of medicines through unregulated channels.
Tanko further highlighted what he described as a major regulatory challenge facing the sector, stating that while millions of pharmaceutical outlets may be operating nationwide, only a small fraction are officially registered under recognized regulatory frameworks covering manufacturing, importation, distribution, and retail services.
The PSN also reminded healthcare institutions that pharmaceutical facilities, including hospital pharmacies, are legally required to operate under the supervision of qualified superintendent pharmacists.
To address the growing concerns, the society called on lawmakers to strengthen existing pharmaceutical regulations and introduce stricter sanctions for individuals involved in illegal drug distribution and unauthorized pharmaceutical practice.
The warning comes as Nigeria continues to confront the persistent challenge of counterfeit, substandard, and poorly regulated medicines, which healthcare stakeholders say remain a significant threat to patient safety and the effectiveness of healthcare delivery.
