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Pharmacy Council seals 724 Pharmacies, Medicine stores in Kwara

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has sealed 724 pharmacies and medicine stores in Kwara State over regulatory breaches.

The Registrar of the Council, Ibrahim Babaselu Ahmed disclosed this in ilorin, the state capital while briefing newsmen on the outcome of a four- day enforcement exercise carried out by the PCN personnel in the state.

The enforcement exercise covered 10 local government areas, including Ilorin South, Ilorin East, Ilorin West, Asa, Offa, Ifelodun, Oyun, Moro, Irepodun and Edu.

Represented by Dr Suleiman Chiroma, the registrar said: “Over the four-day operation, the team inspected a total of 1,238 premises, comprising 167 pharmacies, 957 patent medicine stores, and 114 illegal outlets.

“Consequently, 724 premises were sealed, including 68 pharmacies, 542 patent medicine stores, and 114 illegal outlets. In addition, 11 compliance directives were issued.

“Of the total of 1,238 premises inspected during the exercise, 9% were found to be operating illegally.

“Illegal premises accounted for 15.7% of all facilities sealed due to one or more regulatory breaches,” he said.

Chiroma said that among licensed operators, 59.2% of pharmacies inspected were in full compliance with regulatory standards, compared with 43% of Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendor outlets. As required by law, 100% of the illegal premises identified were sealed.

“The breaches uncovered include operation without valid PCN licence, poor storage conditions, and unauthorized access to controlled medicines, training of apprentice, and cooking in patent medicine shops.

” These practices endanger public health and pose risks to national security when controlled drugs are diverted to criminal networks,” he added.

The Registrar noted that the outcome of the enforcement exercise was a relatively low rate, which reflected improved regulatory outcomes in the state.

“Any breach of established regulations will be met with decisive enforcement action by the Council.

“I call on members of the public to always obtain their medicines from premises duly licensed by the council in order to avert treatment failures,antimicrobial resistance and possible deaths.

He said that duly licensed PCN could be verified through the valid PCN license prominently displayed within the facility, adding that the council is committed to advancing Universal Health Coverage(UHC) in line with the federal government’s health agenda.

“UHC is unattainable without access to safe, effective, quality-assured, and affordable medicines.”, warning that ,”when medicines are dispensed by untrained persons or stored in unsuitable conditions, treatment failures, antimicrobial resistance, and avoidable deaths increase,” he said.

Customs, NDLEA deepen collaboration against drug abuse

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kwara Area Command, has reaffirmed its commitment with the Nigeria Drug Law Agency (NDLEA) to combating drug trafficking and substance abuse.

Customs made the reaffirmation during a high-level conference aimed at addressing the growing menace of illicit drug use among Nigerian youths.

The stakeholders’ conference was held at the Kwara State Innovation Hub, Ilorin, themed: “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges and Innovative Responses.”

The event was organised under the MTN Anti-Substance Abuse Programme, by the MTN Foundation, in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Kwara State Governor on Drug Abuse Prevention and Control, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kwara State Command, led by Commander Popoola Fatima Abiola.

Representing the Nigeria Customs Service, officers of the Kwara Area Command joined other security and law enforcement agencies to deliberate on strategies for tackling drug trafficking networks and curbing substance abuse across communities.

The conference brought together key stakeholders, including the representative of the First Lady of Kwara State and Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Maryam Iya Imam; the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Drug Abuse Prevention and Control, Mr Mukail Aileru; Senior Executives of MTN Nigeria; and other government officials.

Also in attendance were representatives of the NDLEA, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Nigerian Correctional Service.

Teachers, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, pupils and students from various schools also participated in the conference.

Speakers at the event emphasised the importance of a united front against the illegal use and trafficking of narcotics, stressing that effective prevention requires collective action from government institutions, security agencies, families, schools and community leaders.

They noted that drug abuse continues to pose serious threats to Nigeria’s social stability, public health and economic development, calling for innovative and inclusive approaches to address emerging challenges.

According to the speakers, parents must take the lead in preventive efforts, while teachers, religious leaders and traditional rulers should intensify awareness campaigns and mentorship programmes targeted at young people.

The MTN Foundation disclosed that its anti-substance abuse initiative has been running since 2019, providing training and awareness programmes for teachers, schoolchildren and NYSC members across the country.

The foundation reiterated its commitment to sustaining advocacy and capacity-building programmes aimed at reducing drug abuse and promoting healthier lifestyles among Nigerian youths.

The conference ended with a renewed call for stronger collaboration among security agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, to disrupt drug trafficking channels and safeguard communities from the devastating effects of substance abuse.

Speaking at the event, participants agreed that combating drug abuse is a shared responsibility and that sustained partnerships remain critical to winning the fight against illicit drugs in Nigeria.

The programme concluded with a group photograph and networking session among participants.

NSCDC nabs father for sexually assaulting daughter

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara Command, has arrested one AbdulRauf Ambali, 40 years old, over allegations of incest, unlawful sexual intercourse with his 14-year-old daughter.

The NSCDC Commandant in Kwara, Mr Abbas Nda-Muhammed, disclosed this to newsmen on Thursday in Ilorin.

“The suspect was apprehended following credible information received from concerned members of the public in Alapa, Asa Local Government Area of Kwara.

“The matter was initially reported at the Alapa Divisional Office on June 16, and was subsequently transferred to the Command’s Gender Unit for comprehensive investigation,” he said.

Nda-Mohammed said that the case was first brought to the attention of the Corps by the suspect himself, who reported that his 14 year-old daughter had been missing from home for three weeks.

He said that the operatives of NSCDC Gender Unit immediately commenced investigation and successfully traced the minor.

“During the course of interrogation, the girl disclosed that she had deliberately fled from her father’s residence after allegedly enduring months of sexual abuse and intimidation.

“Preliminary findings revealed that the victim had lived with her grandmother since childhood before being taken into her father’s custody in December 2025 under the pretext of providing parental care and support.

“The victim alleged that shortly after moving into his residence, her father began subjecting her to repeated sexual abuse,” he said.

The Commandant said that the victim was frequently threatened, beaten, and intimidated whenever she resisted the suspect’s advances.

He said that the abuse persisted until she could no longer endure the situation, prompting her to leave home without informing anyone of her whereabouts.

Nda-Muhammed further revealed that the victim allegedly became pregnant in May, as a result of the repeated sexual abuse and the father took her to a private facility where the pregnancy was terminated.

“The victim also alleged that she was repeatedly warned not to disclose the incidents to anyone and was later advised to undergo family planning measures to prevent future pregnancies.

“In the course of investigation, the suspect reportedly admitted to having unlawful sexual relations with the minor,” he said.

The Commandant condemned the act, describing it as a heinous betrayal of parental responsibility and a grave violation of the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of a child.

He reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Corps to the protection of all members of the society and urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any criminal activities to security agencies.

New Chief Imam of Ilorin to lead Jummah Khutbah

The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari has approved the commencement of Jumat Khutbah by the new Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad-Bashir Dasuki, on Friday.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Emir’s Spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, on Wednesday, in Ilorin.

“Sheikh Muhammad-Bashir Dasuki was appointed as the 13th Chief Imam of Ilorin Emirate by the Emir of Ilorin on June 10, to succeed Alhaji Muhammad-Bashir Imam-Soliu, who died on January 19.

“Prior to his appointment, the new Chief Imam was the founder and proprietor of Darul Bisharah Arabic and Islamic Studies, Airport Egbejila, Ilorin.

“He served as the Imam, leading daily and weekly Jumu’ah prayers at Afusat Oloriegbe Memorial Mosque, Oko-Olowo Area, Ilorin,” Arowona said.

The Spokesman said that the newly appointed Chief Imam of Ilorin was also a presenter of the Al-Bisharah Islamic Foundation radio programme on Radio Kwara during Ramadan.

“He teaches at Darul Kitab College of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Gaa Akanbi, Ilorin.

“The 13th Chief Imam of Ilorin holds a Master’s Degree in Islamic Studies from Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Islamic Shari’ah from Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt.

“Also, a Diploma in Arabic Islamic Education from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Senior Secondary School Certificate from Darul Kitab wa Sunnah, Gaa Akanbi, Ilorin and Primary School Leaving Certificate from LGEA School, Ilorin,” he said.

Sulu-Gambari, also the Chairman, Kwara Council of Traditional Rulers, Mai-Martaba, prayed for Dasuki to have a successful reign with long life, absolute comfort, divine wisdom, and extreme providence from Allah.

The Emir, therefore, urged the entire Muslim Ummah to endeavour to witness the historic event.

Emir of Ilorin greets Muslims on new Islamic year

The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has felicitated with the entire Muslim Ummah on the Islamic New Year, Muharram 1, 1448 A.H.

He noted that the migration of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) from Makkah to Madinah established the foundation for justice, brotherhood, and community building, values that are urgently needed for global peace.

Sulu-Gambari stated this in a goodwill message issued on Tuesday, by his Spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona.

The Emir described the Hijrah as a timeless reminder of sacrifice, perseverance, and faith in Allah’s divine plan.

“Hijrah teaches us that hard times do not last forever. As we enter 1448 A.H., I urge Muslims to renew their commitment to piety, peaceful coexistence, and service to humanity.

“I call on Nigerians to use the New Year to pray for peace, unity, and economic prosperity at all levels.

“Religious and political leaders should please avoid divisive utterances that are capable of causing rancor in the society,” he said.

The first class traditional ruler admonished the public to always promote messages that strengthen national cohesion.

The Emir further commended Malam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his administration’s support for religious harmony.

He urged youths to emulate the discipline and courage of the early Muslims by shunning violence, drug abuse, and other social vices.

Sulu-Gambari prayed for the repose of the soul of late Prof. Yusuf Lanre Badmos, whose relentless efforts, scholarship, and devotion to Kwara Hijrah Organization, significantly advanced the commemoration of Hijrah and propagation of Islam.

He prayed to Almighty Allah (SWT) to forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, and grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus.

The Emir prayed to Almighty Allah that the New Year inspire Nigerians to be each other’s keeper and grant good health, abundant blessings, and accept every act of worship.

Kwarapoly mourns Director of Skills Institute, Onipede

The Kwara State Polytechnic has announced the death of Mrs Elizabeth Onipede, Director of the Institute of Skills Acquisition (KISA), who passed away in the early hours of Monday.

This was contained in a statement signed by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mrs Halimat Garba, onTuesday in Ilorin.

Garba said the Polytechnic community was thrown into mourning as staff and students received the shocking news of Onipede’s death.

She said the management, led by the Rector, Dr. Abdul Jimoh, paid a condolence visit to the deceased’s family to offer their deepest condolences and share in their grief.

Jimoh said that the visit underscored the respect and importance that the late Onipede held within the Polytechnic community.

The Rector described Onipede as a dedicated and hardworking staff who served diligently as Director of KISA.

“She was known for her unwavering commitment to her work and her passion for skills development and youth empowerment.

“She was a mother figure to many students, with a reputation for discipline, integrity, and mentorship,” he said.

The Rector prayed for the repose of her soul and for strength for the family to bear the loss.

UNILORIN pays tribute to former VC, late Prof. Ambali

The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has mourned the death of its 9th Vice-Chancellor, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali, who died on June 6.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. AbdulWahab Egbewole, SAN, described the late Ambali as one of the University’s “best persons” during a Special Senate session held in his honour.

“As a nation, one of our best is gone. But what we see are his candour, courage, fighting spirit and record of achievement.

“As a University we are sad, but we are celebrating a life of fulfillment and achievements,” he said.

The Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun described him as a visionary leader who “believed in the power of ideas, discipline and service.

“He championed academic excellence, nurtured young minds and created a conducive environment for all-round institutional growth.

“We remember him as a leader who understood that a University is not just lecture halls and laboratories, but also character, community and voice,” he said.

Delivering a eulogy, the 7th Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Shuaib Oba AbdulRaheem, said Ambali conducted himself with distinction, dignity and proved to be a family man, worthy of emulation.

“I regret his loss but rejoice that my brother lived a life worthy of emulation. He lived a Muslim life and his style wasn’t known for any favouritism.

“His life has been cut short before our eyes, a reminder that death will definitely find us, whether we live well or rough,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that dignitaries at the session included representatives of the Consortium of Kwara Universities (KU8+), led by Prof. Jelili Olasunkanmi.

Also, Kwara State University, Malete, represented by Prof. Isiaka Aliagan; and former Deputy Vice-Chancellors who served with Ambali.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by Prof. Gali Alaya, prayed for the soul of the deceased and consoled the families and colleagues of the late Prof. Ambali.

UNILORIN pays tribute to former VC, late Prof. Ambali

21-year-old in NSCDC net over alleged killing of employer

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State Command, has arrested a 21-year-old man, Soliu Mujeeb, over the alleged kidnap and murder of his employer, Mr. Olarewaju Afolabi, 60.*

The State Commandant, Abbas Nda-Muhammed, disclosed this to newsmen on Sunday in Ilorin.

Nda-Muhammed said the case was reported to the Command’s Tracking Unit on June 11 after Afolabi went missing. The victim had left his residence on June 7 to inspect an electrical wiring site but did not return home.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the victim’s family later received a ransom demand of N2 million through the victim’s phone,” the Commandant said.

“The family was only able to raise N120,000, which was paid as directed by the caller, who promised to release the victim.”

He said the suspect was traced through “painstaking investigation and financial analysis” of the N120,000 paid into the victim’s Opay account.

During interrogation, Mujeeb confessed to the crime. He told operatives that he worked for the victim as a journeyman in an electrical installation business.

According to the Commandant, the suspect said a dispute arose between him and the victim over missing materials. The victim allegedly forced him to pay for the items in installments by deducting money from his salary.

“He said he was annoyed when the victim started removing money from his salary to pay for the missing material,” Nda-Muhammed said.

The suspect allegedly lured Afolabi to an uncompleted building in Anuoluwapo Community, Kangile, Ilorin East, under the guise of inspecting a new electrical project, and attacked him there.

“After the suspect attacked and killed the victim, he took possession of his phone and SIM card, and subsequently used the victim’s phone to demand ransom from the family,” he said.

Mujeeb later led operatives to the scene, where a shallow grave containing the victim’s remains, his mobile phone, and SIM card was discovered.

Nda-Muhammed said the case is still under investigation and will be transferred to the appropriate security agency for further investigation and prosecution upon conclusion of preliminary findings.

He assured residents that the NSCDC remains committed to protecting lives and property and will continue to work with other security agencies to rid the state of criminal elements.

The Commandant urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide timely, credible information to security agencies.

Educationist calls on Titcombe Alumni to renovate college facilities

Prof. Kehinde Eniola, Vice-Chancellor of Kogi State University, Kabba, has called on the Titcombe College Egbe Old Students Association (TCEOSA) to renovate college facilities and transform it into one of the most sought-after schools.

Eniola made the call during the 75th Anniversary and Alumni Reunion of TCEOSA, held on Saturday, in Ilorin.

He lauded the efforts of the old students in providing 18 more teachers for key subjects in the school, but urged them to do more by fixing the school facilities.

“There is a need for CCTV cameras in Titcombe College, especially one that is AI-enabled and can trigger an alarm, for security purposes.

“Some facilities like science laboratories, hostels, and sports arenas need to be renovated to top standard, for the students to have a good and strong foundation.

“There are some uncompleted buildings in the school premises that need to be completed for the school activities to be more effective and meaningful,” he added.

The keynote speaker, who is also an alumnus, therefore called for solutions to the problems facing Titcombe College, saying the school should be upgraded to standard so that, 25 years from now, it would still maintain its status.

Another speaker, Mr Sanya Oni, emphasized the need to instill discipline in students, citing the “good old days” when students were required to behave well.

Oni recounted how a teacher openly disciplined his own child who was found violating school rules and regulations in the presence of other students.

He called on teachers to continue instilling discipline in students and urged parents to do the same at home to make the process effective.

The President of TCEOSA, Dr Ruth Adimula, said the 75th anniversary was a celebration of legacy, values, excellence, and enduring impact.

Adimula noted that the College remained a beacon of learning, discipline, character formation, and moral instruction.

She said the education they received while in Titcombe College was beyond academics, as it shaped their values, strengthened their character, and instilled discipline, respect for elders, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility.

The President appreciated the efforts and investments of Senator Sunday Karimi, Senator Representing Kogi West, TCEOSA members, and all stakeholders toward the growth of the College.

Adimula called on the federal government, through the Federal Ministry of Education, to continue prioritizing investment in the education sector, particularly in the funding and effective management of public schools and the welfare of teachers across the federation.