Friday, March, 13 2026 - Nigeria has officially received Lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention injection, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to combat the HIV epidemic. The breakthrough medication was approved by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, with support from the Global Fund.
Lenacapavir is designed for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP),
offering an alternative to daily oral HIV prevention drugs. The injectable
treatment is administered twice a year, providing people at risk of HIV
infection with a more convenient option compared to daily medication.
Health experts say the new injection could significantly
improve treatment adherence, particularly among individuals who find it
difficult to maintain a daily drug routine.
According to Adebobola Bashorun, the National Coordinator of
the National HIV Viral Hepatitis and STDs Control Programme (NASCP), the
arrival of Lenacapavir highlights Nigeria’s commitment to using evidence-based
innovations to accelerate progress toward controlling the epidemic.
Bashorun said expanding prevention options and strengthening
service delivery would help reduce new infections and improve health outcomes
across the country. He added that NASCP, working alongside partners and
stakeholders, will ensure the safe rollout and effective integration of
Lenacapavir into Nigeria’s national HIV prevention programmes.
Lenacapavir is expected to become available in Nigeria and
119 other low- and middle-income countries at an estimated annual cost of about
$40 per person, following voluntary licensing agreements with generic
pharmaceutical manufacturers.
Health officials say the introduction of the long-acting
injection moves Nigeria closer to the goal of ending HIV as a public health
threat.
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