Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Nigeria has taken a significant step in its fight against HIV with the arrival of a long‑acting injectable form of pre‑exposure prophylaxis medication known as lenacapavir. The Federal Government confirmed that the first consignment of the injectable drug has been received and will be deployed as part of the national strategy to prevent new HIV infections, especially among populations at high risk.
Officials from the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare said the long‑acting injectable lenacapavir was obtained to broaden the prevention options available within the country’s HIV response. Unlike daily oral PrEP pills that require strict adherence, this injectable version can maintain protective drug levels in the body for up to six months with a single dose. This extended‑duration protection is expected to make it easier for many people, particularly those who find daily medication challenging, to remain consistently protected.
Preparations for the roll‑out of lenacapavir had been ongoing for weeks, with regulatory approval secured from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and readiness assessments conducted in multiple states. These preparations included training healthcare workers on the safe and effective administration of the new injectable and ensuring that health facilities are equipped to integrate it into existing prevention services.
The introduction of long‑acting injectable PrEP represents a major shift in HIV prevention strategy not only in Nigeria but globally. International health authorities have recognised the potential of lenacapavir to overcome barriers associated with daily medication regimens, such as stigma related to pill use, forgetfulness, and frequent clinic visits. Its approval for use in many parts of the world has encouraged governments and health agencies to adopt the innovation within their own prevention frameworks.
Public health experts in Nigeria welcomed the arrival of the injectable, emphasising that expanding prevention choices is critical to reducing new HIV infections. They noted that communities with limited healthcare access and individuals facing adherence challenges could benefit greatly from a twice‑yearly injection, which would reduce the burden on both clients and the health system.
Despite the optimism, health authorities have stressed that the success of the new intervention will depend on a well‑coordinated implementation effort. This includes community education to build awareness about how lenacapavir works and its role in HIV prevention, strengthened supply chains to ensure uninterrupted availability, and ongoing support for healthcare providers responsible for administering the injections and monitoring recipients.
Public health advocates also pointed out that while lenacapavir is an important addition to HIV prevention tools, it is not a standalone solution. Daily oral PrEP, condoms, regular HIV testing, and antiretroviral treatment for people living with HIV remain essential components of comprehensive HIV control programmes. The new injectable option is expected to complement these existing services and help close persistent gaps in prevention coverage.
The Nigerian government’s decision to adopt the long‑acting injectable follows its commitment to evidence‑based interventions and to accelerating progress toward national and global targets for HIV epidemic control. As more details about the rollout are finalised, authorities say priority populations will be identified to receive the injections first, with broader access expected to follow as implementation expands.
The arrival of lenacapavir has brought renewed hope for many individuals and organisations engaged in HIV prevention efforts, with advocates expressing optimism that the long‑acting option will make protective medication more accessible and acceptable, ultimately contributing to fewer new infections and improved public health outcomes across the country.
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