The House of Representatives has called attention to the rampant issue of indiscriminate drug sales in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for the Federal Government to address this concern. Lawmakers urged the Federal Ministry of Health to establish a prescription policy aimed at curbing cases of drug abuse, particularly among young Nigerians, and to close down all unauthorized outlets of pharmaceutical products. The motion, led by Adamu Gamawa representing Gamawa Federal Constituency in Bauchi State, highlighted the dangers associated with the unregulated sale of drugs by various vendors, including druggists, pharmacists, and street vendors without proper qualifications. The House emphasized the importance of enforcing a prescription policy to ensure that only prescribed drugs are administered by qualified health practitioners, thereby safeguarding the health and well-being of the population.
In response to the motion, the House of Representatives also called on relevant authorities, including the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control, to collaborate in closing illegal outlets and continuously raising public awareness about drug abuse. The committees on Narcotics, Drugs, Healthcare Services, NAFDAC, and legislative compliance were mandated to ensure the implementation of these measures to address the pressing issue of indiscriminate drug sales in the country.
