LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed the arrival of the twice-yearly HIV prevention injection Lenacapavir, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s strategy to curb new infections through innovative medical interventions.
Officials at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare disclosed the development on Wednesday, describing the drug’s arrival as a boost to the country’s ongoing HIV response.
The National Coordinator of the National HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STDs Control Programme (NASCP), Dr. Adebobola Bashorun, said the introduction of the injectable medicine reiterates Nigeria’s commitment to adopting evidence-based solutions to accelerate progress toward epidemic control. Bashorun explained that the ministry, working with partners and other stakeholders, would oversee a careful rollout of the new prevention option.
“NASCP, in collaboration with partners and stakeholders, will work to ensure the safe introduction, strategic deployment, and effective integration of Lenacapavir into the national HIV prevention options,” he said.
The initiative, according to the programme coordinator, is expected to strengthen ongoing efforts to widen access to prevention services nationwide. He added that integrating the drug into existing programmes would reinforce broader national strategies aimed at tackling HIV.
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“NASCP remains committed to advancing equitable access to HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care services. The arrival of Long-Acting Injectable Lenacapavir is a clear demonstration of Nigeria’s resolve to scale up innovative solutions and strengthen the fight against HIV. Together, Nigeria moves closer to ending HIV as a public health threat,” Bashorun stated.
Unlike conventional preventive medicines that must be taken daily, Lenacapavir is administered through an injection twice a year. Health experts believe this long-acting approach could help individuals who struggle to maintain daily oral prevention regimens.
In addition, officials say the drug broadens the range of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) choices available to people at risk of HIV infection. According to the ministry, “As a long-acting injectable option, LEN PrEP has the potential to improve adherence and expand access to effective HIV prevention services for populations that may face challenges with daily oral prevention options.”
The statement further noted that expanding prevention tools could significantly strengthen public health efforts.
“By expanding prevention options and strengthening service delivery, the country is taking decisive steps to reduce new HIV infections and improve health outcomes for communities across Nigeria,” it said.
Lenacapavir is expected to become available in Nigeria alongside 119 other low- and middle-income countries at an estimated cost of about $40 per person annually under voluntary licensing agreements with generic drug manufacturers.
Health authorities describe the development as a key advance supported by the Global Fund and approved by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate. Notably, the programme is expected to support Nigeria’s long-term goal of reducing HIV transmission while expanding access to modern prevention tools nationwide.
