Nigeria has received long-acting injectable lenacapavir (LEN) for HIV prevention; according to the Federal Ministry of Health, this development would increase adherence among individuals at risk of infection and expand preventative alternatives. The novel injection is intended for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), providing an alternative to daily oral HIV medications. It has been approved by Muhammad Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health & Social Welfare, and is funded by the Global Fund.
The new injectable arrived in Nigeria yesterday, March 10, 2026, according to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare's (FMOHSW) National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme (NASCP).
Lenacapavir is a long-acting antiretroviral medication that was first created to treat HIV. It is currently authorized for use as PrEP to prevent infection in some nations. It is delivered as an injectable every six months, providing a convenient alternative for individuals at risk of HIV, in contrast to daily oral pills. Lenacapavir is quite successful in preventing HIV transmission, according to clinical research, especially for people who have trouble taking their medications daily.
The injection has been approved and implemented in a number of African countries, including South Africa, Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. Adebobola Bashorun, Federal Director & National Coordinator of NASCP, signed a statement on Wednesday stating that the milestone further solidifies Nigeria's commitment to increasing cutting-edge HIV prevention choices and marks a significant advancement in the nation's HIV prevention efforts.
In order to guarantee the safe introduction, strategic deployment, and successful integration of Lenacapavir into the country's HIV prevention choices, NASCP stated that it will collaborate with partners and stakeholders. It stated that the implementation will bolster Nigeria's larger HIV response while assisting continuing efforts to expand access to preventative programs.
NASCP reaffirmed its dedication to promoting equitable access to services for HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care.
