The State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Enugu State Command, Dr. Elijah Etim Willie, received a delegation from the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) — Pharmaceutical Inspectors and the Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendors Committee, Enugu State on a courtesy visit led by Pharmacist Ozioko P.O.

Speaking during the visit, Pharmacist Chioma Chukwujekwu stated that the purpose of the visit was to strengthen the existing cordial relationship between the Council and the Command. She acknowledged that the partnership with the NSCDC has played a significant role in curbing illegal pharmaceutical operations across the state. She further emphasized that while medicines are intended to improve health, they can become harmful if misused or dispensed irresponsibly. Unfortunately, she noted, some pharmaceutical outfits prioritize profit over public health, hence the critical need for rigorous inspections and enforcement across all pharmaceutical outlets.

In his response, Dr. Willie commended the Council’s efforts in safeguarding public health and underscored the importance of taking the PCN’s mandate seriously, given the potential consequences of negligence in the pharmaceutical sector. He praised the ongoing collaboration between the PCN’s enforcement team and the NSCDC, highlighting their achievements thus far. The Commandant also congratulated the Council on the recent adoption of the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) designation for graduating pharmacists.

Dr. Willie reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering support in the fight against illegal pharmaceutical practices and assured the Council of continued cooperation to ensure that such activities are reduced to the barest minimum across Enugu State.

The visit featured an interactive session where the NSCDC shared relevant information on the ongoing polio vaccination exercise in the state and emphasized the need for broader public enlightenment and sensitization campaigns beyond the pharmaceutical sector. Additionally, the Command encouraged the Council to consider incentivizing young pharmacists to establish practices in underserved and rural communities instead of the over-concentration of pharmacies in urban areas.

In his closing remarks, Pharmacist Ozioko expressed deep appreciation to the State Commandant for the warm reception and fruitful deliberations. He acknowledged the insightful contributions made by the NSCDC and assured the Command that the suggestions would be given due consideration by the Council. The visit concluded with group photographs to commemorate the occasion.