Kano Bans IV Fluid Administration, Blood Transfusions at Patent Medicine Stores
Mirian Gom 
KANO, Nigeria – The Kano State Government has prohibited patent medicine stores from administering intravenous (IV) fluids and carrying out blood transfusions as part of efforts to curb unsafe medical practices and strengthen healthcare regulation.
The directive was announced by the Acting Executive Secretary of the Kano State Private Health Institutions Management Agency (PHIMA), Khadijah Hussein-Sa’id, during a sensitisation workshop for proprietors and medical directors of private health facilities.
Hussein-Sa’id explained that patent medicine stores are legally recognised as non-clinical retail outlets and are therefore not authorised to perform invasive medical procedures or administer blood transfusions and intravenous therapies.
She said the move is intended to safeguard residents from dangerous and illegal healthcare practices.
“Any patent medicine store or unauthorised facility found administering IV fluids or conducting blood transfusions will face immediate closure and other sanctions in accordance with relevant laws and regulations,” she warned.
According to her, blood transfusions and IV fluid therapy should only be carried out in accredited healthcare facilities under the supervision of qualified medical professionals.
She added that the directive aligns with the state government’s commitment to protecting public health and improving the quality of healthcare delivery.
The PHIMA boss urged residents to report any patent medicine store or unauthorised facility engaging in the prohibited practices.
She said complaints, supported by evidence such as receipts, photographs or other documentation, could be submitted directly to the agency’s office at Magaji Rumfa.
Hussein-Sa’id reaffirmed PHIMA’s commitment to strengthening oversight of private health institutions and taking decisive action against unsafe, illegal and unhygienic medical practices.
She also urged operators of private health facilities to comply fully with regulatory standards to improve patient safety across the state.
About the Author
Oluwafunbi Bello 
Hope Ajayi 
Korede Abdullah 