Nigeria Receives Lenacapavir HIV Prevention Injection, Federal Government Details Rollout
The Federal Government of Nigeria, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has officially received Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking long-acting injectable for HIV prevention. This development marks a significant milestone in the nation's ongoing efforts to combat the HIV epidemic through innovative health solutions.
Commitment to Innovative Health Solutions
Dr. Adebobola Bashorun, the National Coordinator of the National HIV, Viral Hepatitis, and STDs Control Programme (NASCP), emphasized that the arrival of Lenacapavir reflects Nigeria's unwavering dedication to leveraging cutting-edge innovations. In a statement issued on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, Bashorun described this as an evidence-based intervention designed to accelerate progress toward epidemic control.
He stated, "The arrival of Long-Acting Injectable Lenacapavir is a clear demonstration of Nigeria's resolve to scale up innovative solutions and strengthen the fight against HIV. Together, Nigeria moves closer to ending HIV as a public health threat."
Enhancing Access and Prevention Options
The introduction of Lenacapavir for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) represents a crucial step in broadening the range of prevention choices available to individuals at high risk of HIV infection. According to the statement, NASCP will collaborate with partners and stakeholders to ensure the safe introduction, deployment, and integration of Lenacapavir into the national HIV prevention framework.
Bashorun highlighted that this long-acting injectable option has the potential to improve adherence and expand access to effective HIV prevention services, particularly for populations that may face challenges with daily oral prevention methods.
Affordable Rollout and Global Context
NASCP, which operates under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, announced that Lenacapavir is expected to be available in Nigeria and 119 other low- and middle-income countries at an affordable cost of $40 per person annually. This follows voluntary licensing agreements with generic manufacturers, ensuring widespread accessibility.
The rollout is poised to support ongoing efforts to increase access to prevention services while reinforcing Nigeria's broader HIV response. The Federal Ministry of Health, via its official X handle @Fmohnigeria, confirmed that the injection offers a new option for HIV prevention, aligning with global health recommendations.
World Health Organization Guidelines and Local Impact
Recall that the World Health Organization (WHO) recently introduced new HIV prevention guidelines, recommending twice-yearly injectable lenacapavir as an additional PrEP option. Clinical trials have demonstrated that lenacapavir provides near-complete protection against HIV, raising hopes for stronger prevention strategies worldwide.
For Nigeria, where approximately 1.9 million people live with HIV, this guidance presents both opportunities and urgent questions regarding access, equity, and delivery readiness. The nation continues to grapple with significant HIV burdens, with states like Rivers, Benue, and Akwa Ibom reporting the highest numbers of cases.
Addressing Gaps and Sustaining Efforts
While treatment access has improved in recent years, a major gap remains in mother-to-child prevention, with only one-third of pregnant women in need receiving Antiretroviral Therapy (ART). In response, the Federal Government has allocated billions in funding to sustain HIV treatment programs, especially amid concerns over potential cuts in international aid.
This strategic move underscores Nigeria's proactive approach to public health, ensuring that innovative tools like Lenacapavir are integrated into a comprehensive strategy to reduce new infections and improve health outcomes across the country.
