Nigeria Receives Long-Acting HIV Prevention Injection Lenacapavir

Nigeria has received its first supply of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable drug for HIV prevention, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to curb new infections.

The introduction of the medication was approved by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, with support from the Global Fund, reinforcing the government’s commitment to expanding innovative strategies for HIV prevention.

Lenacapavir is designed for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), offering an alternative to daily oral medication by providing protection against HIV through a twice-yearly injection. Health experts say the long-acting option could improve adherence, particularly for individuals who find it difficult to maintain daily treatment schedules.

The National Coordinator of the National HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STDs Control Programme, Adebobola Bashorun, said the arrival of the drug demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to adopting evidence-based innovations to accelerate progress toward controlling the epidemic.

“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 said.

He added that NASCP and its partners would ensure the safe rollout and effective integration of Lenacapavir into the country’s national HIV prevention programmes.

According to health authorities, the drug is expected to be made available in Nigeria and 119 other low- and middle-income countries at an estimated cost of about $40 per person annually, following voluntary licensing agreements with generic pharmaceutical manufacturers.

Officials say the introduction of Lenacapavir brings Nigeria closer to its goal of ending HIV as a public health threat.