Stakeholders at the 98th Annual Conference of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) have called for enhanced inspection, monitoring, and regulation of pharmaceutical premises across the country, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement of existing guidelines and better coordination among regulatory agencies.

The call was made during a panel discussion on “Enhanced Inspection, Monitoring, and Regulation of Pharmaceutical Premises in Nigeria”, held on the third day of the PSN 98th Annual Conference at the Bayero University Convention Arena, Kano. The session featured distinguished figures in pharmaceutical regulation and public health who shared insights on improving the nation’s drug distribution system.

Calls for Improved Inventory and Logistics Management

Pharm. Funsho Fakulujo, FPSN, highlighted the importance of proper inventory management across pharmaceutical premises. He recommended that wholesale outlets be required to own at least two delivery vehicles to strengthen medicine distribution efficiency.

“Effective logistics is the backbone of pharmaceutical supply. Without proper inventory control and adequate delivery systems, regulatory oversight becomes ineffective,” he stated.

Need for Policy Coherence

Dr. Omokhudu Idogho of the Society for Family Health (SFH) emphasized the need for better policy alignment among regulators. He called for a comprehensive review and full implementation of the National Drug Distribution Guidelines (NDDG), noting that fragmented enforcement has hindered the effectiveness of Nigeria’s regulatory system.

“To achieve meaningful progress, there must be alignment among regulators and a commitment to implementing the NDDG as intended,” he said.



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Defining Who Qualifies as a Wholesaler

Pharm. Ochuko Omaruaye, Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Wholesalers and Distributors Association of Nigeria (PWDAN), stressed the need to define clear criteria distinguishing wholesalers from retailers. He raised concerns about retailers disguising as wholesalers and urged regulators to enforce compliance.

“We must return to the National Drug Distribution Guidelines. Only premises that meet the requirements—such as having at least 1000 square meters of space—should be approved as wholesalers,” Omaruaye stated.

He added that adherence to these standards is critical to maintaining the integrity of the nation’s pharmaceutical supply chain.

Strengthening Collaboration Across Agencies

Pharm. Tukur Ibrahim of Kano Medical Store called for stronger collaboration between the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) and other health agencies to enhance manpower and regulatory oversight. He emphasized that joint inspections and improved data sharing would lead to more effective monitoring of pharmaceutical operations.

Consensus on Enforcement and Reform

The panelists agreed that reforming Nigeria’s pharmaceutical distribution system requires both structural and operational reforms. They stressed that consistent enforcement of existing policies and better inter-agency coordination will ensure a safer, more transparent, and more effective regulatory environment.

They concluded that a well-regulated drug distribution network is essential for protecting public health, preventing substandard medicines, and ensuring equitable access to quality pharmaceutical products nationwide.

About the Author: This report was compiled from the panel discussion on “Enhanced Inspection, Monitoring, and Regulation of Pharmaceutical Premises in Nigeria” held during the third day of the PSN 98th Annual Conference at Bayero University, Kano.