Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Raises Concerns Over Drug Regulatory Violations
The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) is sounding the alarm regarding alleged violations of drug regulatory laws, reportedly with the support of certain government officials. These concerns come amid rising incidents of illegal registrations of pharmacy establishments as “medicinal chemists,” actions that PSN President Ayuba Ibrahim Tanko describes as a clear infringement on the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) Act of 2022 and the Fake Drugs Act.
Serious Violations in Cross River and Akwa Ibom States
Tanko highlighted that the abuse of the Drug Regulation Act is particularly rampant in Cross River and Akwa Ibom States. He accused “miscreants” of asserting regulatory powers with the implicit backing of some state government officials, thus violating both the PCN Act of 2022 and the Fake Drugs Act.
Historic Court Verdict Offers Hope Against Quackery
The PSN President praised a recent court ruling against illegal pharmaceutical operators, calling it a historic step in the battle against counterfeit drugs and quackery within Nigeria’s healthcare system. Tanko asserted that the judgments delivered by the Federal High Courts in Ibadan and Calabar bolster pharmacy regulations and issue a stern warning to unlicensed pharmaceutical facilities across the country.
Concerns Over Unregulated Training Practices
PSN also expressed deep concern regarding the unregulated training of individuals claiming professional competence acquired through illegal channels. Tanko pointed out that many such individuals allege they have studied the medical field under dubious circumstances—often in private hospitals, pharmacies, and unethical medical establishments.
Legal Implications of Drug Violations
These actions represent not just a breach of Nigeria’s pharmacy laws but also pose risks to public health and safety. Tanko underscored that these violations undermine established legal frameworks governing drug distribution and regulation. He referred to the Counterfeit Medicines Act, which enforces strict penalties including imprisonment for the possession and distribution of counterfeit medicines.
Need for Comprehensive Regulatory Oversight
According to the PSN, Nigeria’s drug laws, particularly sections of the Counterfeit Medicines Act, categorize the sale of medicines in unauthorized locations as illegal. Furthermore, they designate the PCN as the authorized body responsible for regulating pharmaceuticals. This classification underscores the critical need for rigorous regulatory oversight to align with global best practices in drug management.
Call for Strengthened Regulatory Measures
Tanko noted that most responsible governments worldwide enforce strict drug regulations due to their direct implications on public health. Noting the historical context, he explained the fragmentation of Nigeria’s regulatory framework partially stems from past health sector reforms that devolved licensing powers to local governments. Currently, over 3 million pharmaceutical outlets exist, yet fewer than 50,000 are officially registered, revealing a significant regulatory challenge that demands urgent attention.
Urgent Amendments Needed to Combat Drug Violations
PSN insists that all pharmaceutical operations, including hospital pharmacies, must be overseen by a licensed pharmacist per the PCN Act 2022. The society warned both public and private health institutions against permitting non-pharmacy departments to manage and dispense medications unlawfully. Tanko has called on legislators to amend existing laws to impose more severe penalties on those who contravene the provisions meant to safeguard pharmaceutical integrity. Such regulatory improvements are crucial for protecting patients and revitalizing Nigeria’s pharmaceutical landscape.
