The Nigerian Government has launched Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable drug, to enhance HIV prevention and accelerate efforts to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, revealed this during a press briefing in Abuja, noting that the introduction broadens Nigeria’s HIV prevention options and offers greater convenience for those at risk of infection.
“The drug, given once every six months, provides a practical alternative to daily oral PrEP, especially for individuals who find adherence challenging,” Salako explained.
He added that Nigeria was selected by the Global Fund as one of nine early adopter countries, with around 52,000 doses secured for the 2026 rollout. “This is a major milestone in our HIV prevention efforts and demonstrates our commitment to applying science and global best practices,” he stated.
Salako highlighted that the biannual injection is highly effective, discreet, and suitable for key and vulnerable populations. “It will complement existing prevention strategies, including oral PrEP and injectable Cabotegravir,” he said, adding that the move is expected to curb new infections, broaden access to services, and improve overall health outcomes nationwide.
He noted that the government has developed a National PrEP Implementation Plan (2025–2028) and updated guidelines to ensure a safe and effective introduction of the new drug. “Eight states, including the FCT, have been selected for the first phase of implementation, following facility readiness assessments and stakeholder consultations,” he added.
The Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Dr Temitope Ilori, described Lenacapavir’s introduction as a key step in the country’s HIV response. “This is an additional prevention tool; it does not replace existing methods. Behavioural prevention and public awareness remain essential,” he said, urging media support for nationwide education campaigns.
Dr Aderonke Agbaje, Director of Special Projects at the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, said the drug represents a “significant milestone” that will improve uptake and adherence, particularly among populations facing stigma and access barriers. She explained that the Institute is facilitating the rollout through service integration, capacity building, community engagement, and reinforced supply chain management.
“By diversifying prevention options and adapting them to individual needs, Nigeria is better positioned to reduce new HIV infections,” she said. The first batch is expected to arrive in March 2026, with national and state-level launches planned to raise awareness and ensure access.
Dr Adebobola Basorun, National Coordinator of the National AIDS and STIs Control Programme, emphasised that Lenacapavir complements existing strategies rather than replacing them. “This drug is not a substitute for the ABC of prevention. Safe behaviour remains crucial. For those at additional risk, this drug provides an extra layer of protection,” he said, adding that reported side effects will be carefully monitored.
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare confirmed that the drug would initially be introduced in eight states and the Federal Capital Territory, with robust monitoring and evaluation measures in place to track progress and ensure safety.
