By Erewunmi Peace

Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector is under threat as pharmacists across the country raise grave concerns about the growing menace of unlicensed drug markets, which continue to flourish in major cities and rural areas alike. These open drug hubs, often operated without regulation or quality control, are now being labeled a public health emergency by healthcare professionals.

The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) recently issued a strong warning, urging the Federal Government and law enforcement agencies to intensify their crackdown on these illegal operations. The group is demanding stiffer penalties—₦20 million to ₦50 million in fines and up to 20 years imprisonment—for counterfeit drug dealers.

“We are dealing with a silent epidemic,” said Dr. Adewale Adesina, a senior member of the ACPN. “These unregulated drug markets are fueling the circulation of fake, substandard, and expired medicines. It’s a threat not just to the healthcare system but to human lives.”

Despite repeated efforts by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) to shut down notorious drug hubs in cities like Idumota (Lagos), Onitsha (Anambra), and Ariaria (Aba), enforcement challenges persist.

The Pharmaceutical Affairs Group (PAG) has also called on the Nigerian Governors’ Forum to declare open drug markets a national emergency and urged the National Assembly to expedite passage of the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Bill, which would regulate drug distribution more strictly.

Pharmacists argue that beyond enforcement, the government must provide incentives for proper pharmaceutical investment and create licensed outlets in underserved areas to reduce demand for street-sold drugs.

Why This Matters

Open drug markets have become hotbeds for:

Counterfeit medications

Unlicensed practitioners

Improper drug storage

Antibiotic misuse, contributing to drug resistance

With health outcomes at stake, pharmacists are calling on the government and the public to treat this crisis with the urgency it deserves.

What You Can Do:
Only purchase medications from registered pharmacies, always check NAFDAC numbers, and report suspicious drug activities to health authorities.