Nigeria to Launch New HIV Prevention Injection in 2025

The rollout of a new HIV prevention injection, Lenacapavir, is set to begin in March 2025 across eight Nigerian states: Anambra, Ebonyi, Gombe, Kwara, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This initiative is part of efforts to expand access to innovative HIV prevention options, supported by partners including the Global Fund and the World Health Organization.

Lenacapavir is an antiretroviral drug used as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and is administered once every six months, significantly reducing the burden of daily pill adherence. The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) and the National HIV Viral Hepatitis and STDs Control Programme (NASCP) are overseeing the program, which targets HIV-negative individuals at substantial risk of infection.

The rollout will include a phased approach to monitor safety and effectiveness, with an initial delivery of 52,000 doses. Health experts emphasize that while Lenacapavir is a significant advancement, it does not prevent unintended pregnancies and is not recommended for pregnant women.