Boost for HIV prevention as Nigeria receives lenacapavir injection 

Nigeria has taken delivery of long-acting injectable lenacapavir (LEN) for HIV prevention, a development the Federal Ministry of Health says will broaden prevention options and help improve adherence among people at risk of infection.

The new injectable, approved by Muhammad  Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health & Social Welfare and supported through the Global Fund, is designed for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), offering an alternative to daily oral HIV drugs.

The National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme (NASCP) of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMOHSW)  announced that the new injectable arrived Nigeria yesterday, March 10 2026.

Lenacapavir is a long-acting antiretroviral drug originally developed to treat HIV, now approved in some countries for PrEP to prevent infection.

Unlike daily oral pills, it is administered as an injectable every six months, offering a convenient alternative for people at risk of HIV. Clinical studies have shown that lenacapavir is highly effective in reducing HIV transmission, particularly for individuals who struggle with daily medication adherence.

several African like Zambia, Kenya, Zimbabwe and South Africa have approved and rolled out the injection.

According to a statement on Wednesday signed by Adebobola Bashorun, Federal Director & National Coordinator
NASCP, the milestone represents a major advancement in the country’s HIV prevention efforts and further strengthens Nigeria’s commitment to expanding innovative HIV prevention options.

“The  introduction of Lenacapavir for PrEP marks a significant step towards broadening the range of prevention choices available to individuals at risk of HIV infection.

“As a long-acting injectable option, LEN PrEP has the potential to improve adherence and expand access to effective HIV prevention services for populations that may face challenges with daily oral prevention options,” the statements read.

NASCP said it will work in collaboration with partners and stakeholders to ensure the safe introduction, strategic deployment, and effective integration of Lenacapavir into the national HIV prevention options. The rollout, it said, will support ongoing efforts to increase access to prevention services while reinforcing Nigeria’s broader HIV response.

“The arrival of LEN PrEP reflects Nigeria’s continued dedication to leveraging innovation and evidence-based interventions to accelerate progress toward epidemic control. By expanding prevention options and strengthening service delivery, the country is taking decisive steps to reduce new HIV infections and improve health outcomes for communities across Nigeria,” the statement added.

NASCP reiterated its commitment to advancing equitable access to HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care services.