The Federal Government has announced plans to introduce Lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention injection, as part of efforts to eliminate HIV/AIDS as a public health threat in Nigeria by 2030.
Iziaq Salako made the disclosure on Monday during a media parley organised by the National HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STDs Control Programme under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in Abuja.
He said the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment under Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen Nigeria’s HIV response through innovation, expanded prevention strategies, and increased domestic funding.
According to Salako, Nigeria has been selected by the Global Fund as one of nine early adopter countries for the rollout of Lenacapavir for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), with implementation set to begin in January 2026. He revealed that about 52,000 doses have already been secured for the initial phase.
Lenacapavir, administered once every six months, represents a shift from daily oral PrEP regimens, which have faced adherence challenges, especially among high-risk populations.
Nigeria currently has the second-largest HIV burden globally, with an estimated 1.9 million people living with HIV, according to the National Agency for the Control of AIDS. Although prevalence has declined, new infections remain a significant concern.
Public health experts have identified prevention as a major gap in Nigeria’s HIV response, pointing to stigma, limited access, and difficulties with daily medication adherence as key barriers.
Salako described the introduction of the injectable PrEP as a major advancement, particularly for vulnerable groups at higher risk of infection. He noted that the new option would expand the country’s HIV prevention toolkit.
Also speaking, Adebobola Bashorun, National Coordinator of the programme, said efforts are underway to expand access across more states, including exploring additional funding to increase available doses and reach more at-risk populations.
He clarified that the injection will complement existing prevention methods rather than replace them, noting that oral PrEP and other strategies will remain in use based on national guidelines.
Addressing safety concerns, Bashorun said reported side effects have been mild, mainly involving pain at the injection site, with ongoing monitoring showing encouraging results.
Salako added that the rollout is being supported through a partnership with the Global Fund, while the government is also exploring long-term sustainability options, including local production and technology transfer to reduce reliance on external donors and ensure consistent access to HIV prevention tools.
