The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has urged the National Assembly to institute stringent penal reforms against counterfeit drug dealers, proposing a minimum fine of N25 million and prison terms of up to 20 years to stem the tide of illicit medicines across the country.
​The position was presented by PSN President Pharm. Ayuba Tanko during a public hearing at the Senate Complex in Abuja on the Anti-Counterfeit Bill (SB-951), a legislative measure aimed at strengthening the Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods Act.
Section 1 Violations (Major Dealers & Manufacturers): Fines of no less than N125 million, prison terms ranging from 5 to 20 years, or both, alongside total asset forfeiture.
Section 2(1) Violations (Distribution & Sale): A minimum fine of N25 million, a mandatory minimum imprisonment of 15 years, or both, coupled with the forfeiture of assets traceable to offenders.
Establishing an operational unit headed by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), supported by pharmaceutical inspectors and the Nigeria Police Force.
​Addressing lawmakers, health officials, and industry leaders, Pharm. Tanko argued that legacy fines, often capped at lenient figures—act as minor overhead costs for organized counterfeit syndicates rather than genuine deterrents.
​”To effectively protect the health of Nigerians and restore integrity to our healthcare ecosystem, punishment must strictly reflect the gravity of the crime. Light penalties only incentivize illicit trade at the expense of human lives,” Tanko emphasized during his address.
​The PSN reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the National Assembly and health sector regulators to ensure swift passage and implementation of the proposed legislative framework.
