Abuja, Nigeria — In a groundbreaking move to strengthen its national response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, Nigeria has introduced lenacapavir, a new long-acting injectable medicine for HIV prevention. This development is a significant step towards reducing new infections and advancing the country’s HIV goals.
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare spearheaded the launch of this intervention, receiving support from key partners including the World Health Organization (WHO), the Global Fund, the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), and others. The rollout is in line with national priorities outlined in the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the National HIV/AIDS Strategic Framework 2023–2027, which emphasize expanded access to effective prevention tools, reduced inequalities, and enhanced integration of HIV services within primary health care.
Nigeria, which has an estimated 1. 9 million people living with HIV, faces a substantial burden, particularly among young women and key populations. Many who could benefit from pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) have reported challenges with adhering to daily oral medication due to issues such as stigma and access.
Lenacapavir offers an alternative, providing a single injection every six months. The Purpose 1 and Purpose 2 studies, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, demonstrated high levels of protection for those at substantial risk of HIV, providing a new option for those preferring less frequent dosing or encountering barriers to daily pills.
During the national launch, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to innovation in reducing new HIV infections and strengthening domestic ownership of health programs. The government has allocated a budget of US$ 346 million for 2026 to support priority areas such as HIV prevention, laboratories, and improvements in primary health care.
For many individuals, the introduction of lenacapavir represents a practical solution. Aseme Josephine, Chairperson of the Nigeria Key Populations Health and Rights Network (NKPHRN), who previously used daily oral PrEP, expressed her relief. “Taking a pill every day was not easy for me.
I sometimes forgot and worried about my risk. Knowing that I can use an injection every six months makes me feel more protected and less stressed, “she.
Health workers also recognize the potential benefits. Dr Babatunde Abegunde, the Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Coordinator at Maitama District Hospital in the Federal Capital Territory, highlighted that longer-acting options may help reduce stigma. “This is a game-changer in the fight against HIV.
Some clients do not want to be seen collecting PrEP monthly. An injection given in a private room every few months will now make a big difference, “he.
In preparation for the rollout, Nigeria has been working for several years, with WHO technical support. More than 70 health facilities across 10 states were assessed to determine their readiness for PrEP delivery, helping to identify needs in training, supply management, counseling, and monitoring. The first phase of implementation will begin in eight states: Benue, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Ebonyi, Gombe, Kwara, the Federal Capital Territory, and Cross River. Nigeria is among nine early adopters globally and is expected to receive around 180,000 doses by 2028.
WHO continues to provide guidance for the safe and equitable introduction of new PrEP options, including support for policy adaptation, health worker training, and service integration. The introduction of lenacapavir is expected to contribute to a reduction in new infections, with projections to be added once national modeling results are available.
The launch of lenacapavir demonstrates strong collaboration among the Nigerian government, donors, and technical agencies. The Global Fund and PEPFAR are supporting procurement, service delivery, and community engagement, while civil society organizations are working to raise awareness and support demand creation, particularly among young people.
As the rollout begins, Nigeria plans to expand availability gradually, ensuring that services remain safe, person — centered, and accessible. Continued investment in communities, health worker training, and public education will be crucial. WHO will continue to work with national authorities and partners to guide implementation, monitor safety, and support evidence-based decision-making.
Nigeria’s introduction of long-acting PrEP shows the value of leadership, data, and strong partnerships. Sustained commitment from all sectors is essential to ensure that those who stand to benefit most are reached, informed, and empowered to make health-protective decisions. For additional information or to request interviews, please contact the Communications Officer at WHO Nigeria, Email: hammanyerok@who. Int.
Source: reliefweb
