Nigeria has officially received Lenacapavir, a long-acting injection used for HIV prevention, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to combat the epidemic.
Approved by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, and supported by the Global Fund, the arrival of Lenacapavir reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to expanding innovative HIV prevention strategies.
Designed for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), the injectable offers an alternative to daily oral medications, providing people at risk of HIV with a convenient, twice-yearly preventive option.
Health experts say this could significantly improve adherence and access for populations who struggle with daily treatment schedules.
The National Coordinator of the National HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STDs Control Programme (NASCP), Dr. Adebobola Bashorun, said the delivery of Lenacapavir underscores Nigeria’s dedication to using evidence-based innovations to accelerate progress toward epidemic control.
“By expanding prevention options and strengthening service delivery, we are taking decisive steps to reduce new HIV infections and improve health outcomes across the country,” Bashorun stated.
He added that NASCP, alongside partners and stakeholders, will ensure the safe rollout and effective integration of Lenacapavir into national HIV prevention programs.
“Together, Nigeria moves closer to ending HIV as a public health threat,” he said.
Lenacapavir is expected to be available in Nigeria and 119 other low- and middle-income countries at an affordable annual cost of $40 per person, following voluntary licensing agreements with generic manufacturers.
