The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria has closed down 666 drug outlets across Kaduna State for violating operational standards and public health regulations.

The enforcement sweep covered 47 pharmacies, 313 patent medicine stores, and 306 unlicensed premises. According to the PCN’s Director of Enforcement, the affected outlets were operating without valid registration, keeping poor records, storing medicines in unsafe conditions, and dispensing prescription-only drugs without a qualified pharmacist on site.

He warned that such practices expose the public to ineffective, degraded, or harmful medicines due to poor handling and storage. Two individuals were arrested during the exercise for attempting to obstruct officials and for running illegal pharmaceutical businesses.

The council said the clampdown is part of its nationwide drive to sanitise drug distribution and protect Nigerians from the dangers of fake and substandard products. Operators willing to meet regulatory requirements have been advised to visit PCN offices for guidance on proper licensing and compliance.

The PCN stressed that routine monitoring will continue across all states to ensure only approved premises dispense medicines to the public.