Nigeria has taken a significant step in strengthening its HIV prevention strategy with the introduction of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable medication designed to help prevent HIV infection.
The new medication was approved by Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, with support from the Global Fund. Its arrival marks an important milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to reduce new HIV infections and improve access to innovative prevention tools.
Lenacapavir is used for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)—a medical approach that helps protect individuals who are at higher risk of contracting HIV. Unlike traditional oral PrEP medications that must be taken daily, Lenacapavir is administered as an injection only twice a year, offering a more convenient option for many people.
Public health experts believe this long-acting treatment could significantly improve adherence to HIV prevention strategies. For many individuals, maintaining a daily medication routine can be challenging, and a twice-yearly injection may help increase consistent protection.
According to Adebobola Bashorun, National Coordinator of the National HIV Viral Hepatitis and STDs Control Programme, the introduction of Lenacapavir demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to adopting evidence-based innovations in the fight against HIV.
He noted that expanding prevention options while strengthening service delivery will help reduce new infections and improve health outcomes across the country. The programme, working alongside national and international partners, plans to ensure the safe rollout and effective integration of Lenacapavir into Nigeria’s HIV prevention services.
Through voluntary licensing agreements with generic pharmaceutical manufacturers, Lenacapavir is expected to become available in Nigeria and 119 other low- and middle-income countries at an estimated cost of about $40 per person annually.
Health officials say the introduction of this long-acting HIV prevention injection represents a major advancement in global HIV prevention efforts and brings Nigeria closer to the goal of ending HIV as a public health threat.
