Kano govt clamps down on codeine outlets, begins retrieval

Kano state pharmacists inspection committee under the Ministry of Health, has commenced retrieval of all codeine substance at the stage of preparation from pharmaceutical outlets and individuals in the state. This is part of efforts to rid the state of any syrup or tablets containing codeine, as directed by the federal government. The chairman of the committee, who is also the Director, Pharmaceutical Services in the Ministry of Health, Abdu Umar Madaki, said the committee visited about 20 premises in the state in order to retrieve such products, saying some preparations have been retrieved with proper documentation. He enjoined all pharmacies and individuals in possession of any codeine containing preparations to contact the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria, Kano office to collect the recall form to assist in mopping up codeine circulation in the state. Meanwhile, the state government has assured that it would step up collaboration with the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria, NAFDAC, NDLEA and other stakeholders towards tackling the menace of illegal drug sale and abuse. In the past few months, substantial amount of illegal and expired drugs was confi scated even as the government is pursuing the prosecution of the arrested culprits. The government urged well meaning people to support its anti drug war by giving useful drug related information to the relevant authorities. In the meantime, the state government is working towards speedy completion of renovation