The Federal Government has introduced a long-acting HIV prevention injection administered once every six months, marking a major step in Nigeria’s efforts to end HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Adekunle Salako, disclosed this on Monday during a press briefing in Abuja, describing the rollout of the drug, Lenacapavir, as a significant milestone in expanding HIV prevention and care services.
According to him, the injectable drug offers a more convenient alternative to daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), particularly for individuals who may struggle with adherence.
“Unlike daily oral PrEP, Lenacapavir is administered once every six months, making it a highly convenient and discreet prevention option, especially for key and vulnerable populations,” Salako said.
He noted that the drug has demonstrated high effectiveness in reducing the risk of HIV infection and has a safety profile comparable to existing oral therapies.
Nigeria is among nine countries selected by the Global Fund as early adopters of Lenacapavir. About 52,000 doses have already been secured for the initial phase of the rollout.
The first phase will be implemented in selected states, including Anambra, Ebonyi, Gombe, Kwara, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Benue, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.
Health authorities said the injection is designed for HIV-negative individuals at risk of infection and will complement existing prevention methods such as oral PrEP and other long-acting options, giving users more flexibility based on their needs and lifestyles.
To guide the rollout, the government has developed a national implementation framework covering service delivery, supply chain, financing, and community engagement. Preparations have also included regulatory approvals by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, training of healthcare workers, and awareness campaigns.
The first batch of the injections arrived in the country on March 10, 2026, with nationwide rollout activities already underway.
Salako said the initiative represents a critical step toward reducing new infections, eliminating mother-to-child transmission, and strengthening Nigeria’s overall HIV response.
“As one of the early adopter countries, Nigeria’s successful implementation will expand prevention choices for individuals at risk and accelerate progress toward ending HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030,” he said.