The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has made a strong appeal for stricter penalties against those involved in the manufacturing and distribution of counterfeit drugs. During a press conference on Monday, PSN President, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, proposed a minimum fine of N25 million and prison sentences ranging from five to 20 years for offenders, emphasizing the need to protect public health and deter illegal activities in the pharmaceutical sector.

Ibrahim criticized the current penalties, which include fines as low as N5,000 and N10,000, stating that such amounts are insufficient to discourage those engaging in the lucrative counterfeit drug trade. "How can you say somebody is caught faking drugs and pays a fine of N5,000 or N10,000? So it encourages them," he remarked, highlighting the urgent need for legislative reform.

The PSN has urged the National Assembly to expedite the amendment of the Fake Drug Act, which currently imposes inadequate penalties. The proposed changes would not only increase fines but also allow for the forfeiture of assets linked to drug faking, depending on the severity of the offense. Ibrahim expressed hope that lawmakers would prioritize this issue to ensure the proposed changes become law.

The society's call for tougher sanctions comes in light of the persistent issue of counterfeit medicines in Nigeria. Ibrahim noted that while regulatory agencies are intensifying enforcement operations, the profitability of fake drugs necessitates stronger legal repercussions. "Drug faking has come to stay. Nobody should assume that it can be eliminated because it’s a very lucrative business," he stated.

In addition to advocating for harsher penalties, Ibrahim called for the full implementation of the National Drug Distribution Guidelines (NDDG), which were approved in 2015. These guidelines aim to enhance the regulation of medicine distribution and curb the circulation of fake and substandard products. Ibrahim identified key open drug markets in cities such as Lagos, Onitsha, Kano, and Aba that require government intervention to improve oversight and compliance.

The PSN president also emphasized the importance of professional responsibility in the fight against counterfeit drugs, urging pharmacists and healthcare professionals to play a critical role in protecting consumers. He advised Nigerians to purchase medicines only from registered pharmacies, warning that unregulated outlets could pose serious health risks.

Furthermore, Ibrahim raised concerns about the rising costs of medicines, asserting that government incentives for local pharmaceutical manufacturers would be ineffective unless broader economic issues, such as high production costs and energy expenses, are addressed. He called for a comprehensive approach from the government to tackle the various factors influencing drug prices.

As the PSN prepares for its 99th Annual National Conference scheduled for November 1 to 6, 2026, in Awka, Anambra State, the theme will focus on collaboration in pharmacy practice and policy for national impact. The conference aims to bring together pharmacists, policymakers, and healthcare professionals to discuss pressing issues in the pharmaceutical sector, including the regulation of drug distribution and the safety of herbal products.

In a related note, PSN National Secretary, Pharm. Gafar Madehein, cautioned against assuming the safety of herbal products solely based on NAFDAC registration numbers, urging consumers to seek professional advice before combining herbal and conventional medicines. This highlights the ongoing need for public education on safe medication practices as the PSN continues its advocacy for a safer pharmaceutical environment in Nigeria.