Nigeria Receives Lenacapavir HIV Prevention Injection

On Wednesday, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in Nigeria confirmed the receipt of the HIV prevention injection known as lenacapavir. Dr. Adebobola Bashorun stated that this arrival reflects Nigeria's ongoing dedication to leveraging innovative, evidence-based interventions to accelerate progress toward epidemic control.

The Nigerian National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NASCAP) will collaborate with partners and stakeholders to ensure the safe introduction and strategic deployment of lenacapavir as an HIV prevention option. This long-acting injection, administered biannually, offers a convenient alternative to daily oral prevention medication.

The introduction of lenacapavir marks a significant step toward broadening the range of preventive choices available to individuals at risk of HIV infection. The drug is expected to be available in Nigeria and 119 low- and middle-income countries at an annual cost of $40 per person, following a voluntary licensing agreement.

Prof. Ali Pate supported this initiative, highlighting its importance in strengthening Nigeria's HIV prevention efforts.