By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

In a major milestone for Nigeria’s HIV response, the Federal Government has launched Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable drug for HIV prevention administered once every six months. The initiative is part of Nigeria’s intensified efforts to eliminate AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, announced the rollout on Monday in Abuja, describing it as a significant advancement in the country’s HIV prevention strategy. He said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to expanding prevention, treatment, and care services, while strengthening domestic financing and eliminating mother-to-child transmission.

“Unlike daily oral PrEP, Lenacapavir is administered once every six months, making it a highly convenient and discreet prevention option for individuals at high risk of infection,” Salako explained. “The drug has demonstrated strong effectiveness in reducing HIV acquisition while maintaining a safety profile comparable to existing therapies.”

Nigeria is among nine early adopter countries selected by the Global Fund for the introduction of Lenacapavir, which began in January 2026. Approximately 52,000 doses have been secured for the initial phase across selected states. These include Anambra, Ebonyi, Gombe, Kwara, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The initiative complements existing HIV prevention tools, including oral PrEP and long-acting injectable Cabotegravir (CAB-PrEP), offering individuals greater flexibility in choosing prevention methods that suit their needs.

Dr. Aderonke Agbaje, Director of Special Projects at the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), highlighted that the twice-yearly injectable will help improve adherence, particularly for populations facing challenges with daily medication due to stigma or access issues. She emphasised that Lenacapavir is part of a combination prevention approach and does not replace existing methods.

Preparations for the rollout have included NAFDAC regulatory approvals, healthcare provider training, facility readiness assessments, data reporting systems, and community awareness campaigns. A national launch will be followed by facility-level flag-offs across participating states.

Salako expressed optimism that Lenacapavir will accelerate Nigeria’s progress toward ending HIV/AIDS, expand prevention coverage, and reduce future treatment costs, stating, “This milestone strengthens Nigeria’s HIV prevention response and provides high-risk populations with an effective, convenient, and safe option to protect themselves.”

IHVN and other partners will support the rollout through integrated strategies, including key population-friendly facilities, one-stop prevention platforms, supply chain strengthening, and community engagement to reduce stigma and ensure effective service delivery.