Nigeria has received a new HIV prevention injection that health authorities say could strengthen efforts to reduce new infections and expand access to preventive treatment across the country.

The Federal Government confirmed on Wednesday that the country has taken delivery of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable drug used for HIV prevention. Health officials say the medication introduces another option for people who may struggle with daily oral preventive drugs.

The National HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STDs Control Programme at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare said the arrival of the drug reflects ongoing efforts to expand prevention strategies and improve access to modern treatment options.

National Coordinator of the programme, Dr Adebobola Bashorun, said the development represents an important step in strengthening Nigeria’s HIV response.

“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 injection 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 designed as a long-acting injectable form of pre-exposure prophylaxis, commonly known as PrEP. Unlike daily preventive pills that must be taken consistently, the medication is administered only twice a year, a feature experts say could improve adherence among people at risk of HIV infection.

Health officials say the introduction of the drug is expected to broaden prevention choices available in Nigeria’s HIV response framework.

According to the programme, “The introduction of Lenacapavir for PrEP marks a significant step towards broadening the range of prevention choices available to individuals at risk of HIV infection.

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“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 drug is expected to be made available in Nigeria and 119 other low- and middle-income countries through voluntary licensing agreements with generic manufacturers. Under the arrangement, the medication could be supplied at an estimated cost of US$40 per person annually, a pricing model intended to make the treatment accessible in resource-limited settings.

Health authorities say the rollout of the drug has been approved by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Ali Pate, and is supported through the Global Fund, a major international financing mechanism for HIV, tuberculosis and malaria programmes.

Officials say the development represents another step in Nigeria’s broader strategy to reduce new infections and strengthen prevention, testing and treatment services nationwide.

Meiza Nigeria