The Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) has sought collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) towards strengthening regulation for the importation of drugs, illicit medicines, and other pharmaceutical activities.
The chairman of the governing council, Prof. Ahmed Tijjani Mora, made the request Saturday in Abuja during a visit to the NCS Comptroller-General, Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali (Retd.).
He said the collaboration with the service would enhance the PCN’s regulatory and inspectorate activities.
He said,” Indeed, there is a good convergence in the functions of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN). It is a known fact that the NCS regulates and controls all items of import including medicines (drugs).
“The PCN on the other hand issues premises certificates and regulates the practice of all pharmaceutical importers. The PCN is particularly pleased that premises licence is an important instrument in the processing of importation and clearing of medicines by the Nigeria Customs Service.”
The CG said the strong synergy between the two organisations would ensure effective regulation of the drug importation channels, ensure only authentic drugs were imported, and reduce the use of illicit drugs in the country.
He added that the partnership would positively impact the economy of the country and the wellbeing of Nigerians.
