Abuja, Nigeria – In a groundbreaking step toward ending HIV/AIDS, the Federal Government has introduced Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable drug for HIV prevention that is administered just twice a year.
The innovation is being hailed as a major leap in Nigeria’s public health response, offering a more convenient alternative to daily preventive medication and boosting the country’s goal of eliminating HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Adekunle Salako, announced the development on Monday during a press briefing in Abuja.
According to him, the introduction of Lenacapavir will significantly expand access to HIV prevention, especially among vulnerable and high-risk populations.
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“Unlike daily oral PrEP, Lenacapavir is administered once every six months, making it a highly convenient and discreet prevention option,” Salako stated.
He noted that the drug has shown strong effectiveness in reducing the risk of HIV infection, with a safety profile comparable to existing oral therapies.
Nigeria’s selection by the Global Fund as one of nine early adopter countries underscores global confidence in the nation’s HIV response strategy. An initial batch of 52,000 doses has already been secured for rollout.
The first phase of implementation will take place in selected states and the Federal Capital Territory, including Kwara State, Anambra State, Ebonyi State, Gombe State, Akwa Ibom State, Cross River State, and Benue State.
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Health authorities say the drug is specifically designed for HIV-negative individuals, particularly those who may find it difficult to maintain strict adherence to daily medication schedules.
Lenacapavir will complement existing preventive options, including oral PrEP and long-acting injectable Cabotegravir (CAB-PrEP), giving individuals a wider range of choices tailored to their lifestyles.
To ensure a smooth rollout, the Federal Ministry of Health has developed a comprehensive implementation framework, including a Rapid Advice guideline and the 2025–2028 National PrEP Implementation Plan. The strategy addresses key areas such as service delivery, supply chain management, financing, and community engagement.
Preparations are already in advanced stages, with approvals secured from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, alongside nationwide training for healthcare providers and public awareness campaigns.
The first shipment of the injections arrived in the country on March 10, 2026, with nationwide launch activities currently underway.
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Salako emphasized that the initiative represents more than just a medical advancement—it is a strategic move to accelerate Nigeria’s HIV prevention efforts.
“As one of the early adopter countries, Nigeria’s successful implementation will expand prevention choices and accelerate progress toward ending HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030,” he said.
Public health experts believe the introduction of Lenacapavir could significantly reduce new HIV infections, particularly among populations that face challenges with daily medication adherence, marking a turning point in the nation’s fight against the epidemic.
