Kano task force shuts pharmaceutical firm over ₦900m worth of controlled drug, pregabalin

The Kano State Multi-Agency Taskforce on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has taken action against a pharmaceutical company accused of illegally distributing Pregabalin, a controlled drug widely abused in the region. Taskforce chairman Muhuyi Magaji revealed the discovery of 3.18 million tablets, valued at over ₦900 million, during a tour of the facility in Kano's Sabon Gari area.

The taskforce has arrested 1,760 individuals and secured 890 convictions in its fight against drug abuse and trafficking, but expressed concern that certain licensed pharmaceutical firms are aiding the illegal supply chain. Magaji accused officials from the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria and NAFDAC in Kano of facilitating the distribution of controlled medicines, despite limited availability in legitimate pharmacies.

He questioned the approval of Pregabalin's import licence after NAFDAC classified it as a controlled drug in 2026. The chairman also raised suspicions about another pharmaceutical firm potentially being used as a cover for illicit activities, highlighting the need for further investigation. Magaji accused some PCN officials of having connections with drug distribution networks and resisting efforts to combat the issue due to their interests.

He expressed frustration over the protection of drug dealers, stating that while he was pursuing users, the perpetrators were being shielded by those responsible for regulating them.