The Federal Government has launched Lenacapavir, a long-acting injection for HIV prevention, in a move aimed at reducing new infections and strengthening the country’s response to the disease.
The rollout was announced on March 27, 2026, in Abuja by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, who described the drug as a major breakthrough in HIV prevention.
According to him, Lenacapavir offers a significant advantage over daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), as it is administered less frequently, thereby improving adherence among users and expanding protection for individuals at high risk of HIV infection.
“The intervention aligns with Nigeria’s target of ending HIV/AIDS as a public health threat,” Pate said, noting that the new injection would complement existing preventive strategies such as HIV testing, condom use, and antiretroviral therapy.
The Minister added that the Federal Ministry of Health is working to ensure widespread access to the drug across the country, alongside increased public awareness campaigns.
Health experts say the introduction of Lenacapavir could mark a turning point in Nigeria’s HIV prevention efforts, particularly among vulnerable populations, as the country continues to scale up interventions aimed at reducing transmission rates.
The initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to control HIV and ultimately eliminate it as a public health threat.