- The Federal Government has confirmed the arrival of the HIV prevention injection Lenacapavir in Nigeria
- The drug is a long-acting injectable PrEP administered twice yearly, providing an alternative to daily oral HIV prevention medication
- Health officials say the injection could improve adherence to HIV prevention among individuals who struggle with daily medication
The Federal Government has confirmed the arrival of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable drug designed to prevent HIV infection, marking a major step in Nigeria’s HIV prevention strategy.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, March 11, by the National Coordinator of the National HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STDs Control Programme (NASCP) under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Adebobola Bashorun.
In a statement, Bashorun said the arrival of the injection demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to adopting innovative and evidence-based interventions aimed at controlling the spread of HIV.
Bashorun said, “NASCP, in collaboration with partners and stakeholders, will work to ensure the safe introduction, strategic deployment, and effective integration of Lenacapavir into the national HIV prevention options.
“The rollout will support ongoing efforts to increase access to prevention services while reinforcing Nigeria’s broader HIV response.
“NASCP remains committed to advancing equitable access to HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care services.
“The arrival of Long-Acting Injectable Lenacapavir is a clear demonstration of Nigeria’s resolve to scale up innovative solutions and strengthen the fight against HIV. Together, Nigeria moves closer to ending HIV as a public health threat.”
Lenacapavir is administered as an injection twice a year, offering a more convenient alternative to daily oral medications used for HIV prevention.
According to the statement, introducing Lenacapavir for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) will significantly expand the prevention options available to individuals who are at risk of HIV infection.
“As a long-acting injectable option, LEN PrEP has the potential to improve adherence and expand access to effective HIV prevention services for populations that may face challenges with daily oral prevention options.
“By expanding prevention options and strengthening service delivery, the country is taking decisive steps to reduce new HIV infections and improve health outcomes for communities across Nigeria,” the statement further read.
The medication is expected to be available in Nigeria and 119 other low- and middle-income countries at an estimated cost of $40 per person per year, following voluntary licensing agreements with generic drug manufacturers.
The ministry added that the introduction of the drug was approved by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, with support from the Global Fund.
“This milestone, approved by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Ali Pate and supported through the Global Fund, represents a major advancement in the country’s HIV prevention efforts and further strengthens Nigeria’s commitment to expanding innovative HIV prevention options,” the statement added.