The Federal Government has received the long-acting injectable Lenacapavir (LEN) for use as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) in the prevention of HIV/AIDS, marking a significant step in expanding the country’s HIV prevention options.

The government said the introduction of the injectable drug will support ongoing efforts to widen access to prevention services while strengthening Nigeria’s broader response to HIV.

According to officials, key rollout requirements have already been completed, including landscape and readiness assessments across 10 states: Akwa Ibom State, Anambra State, Benue State, Cross River State, Ebonyi State, the Federal Capital Territory, Gombe State, Kano State, Kwara State, and Lagos State.

The National Coordinator of the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme (NASCP) under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare Nigeria, Adebobola Bashorun, disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja.

Bashorun explained that the introduction of Lenacapavir for PrEP represents an important milestone in expanding prevention choices for individuals at risk of HIV infection. He noted that as a long-acting injectable option, LEN PrEP could significantly improve adherence and expand access to effective HIV prevention services, particularly for people who find it difficult to maintain daily oral medication.

“This milestone, approved by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare and supported through the Global Fund, represents a major advancement in Nigeria’s HIV prevention efforts and strengthens the country’s commitment to expanding innovative prevention options,” he said.

According to him, the arrival of LEN PrEP reflects Nigeria’s dedication to deploying innovation and evidence-based interventions to accelerate progress toward controlling the HIV epidemic.

“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,” Bashorun added.

He noted that NASCP, in collaboration with partners and stakeholders, will ensure the safe introduction, strategic deployment, and effective integration of Lenacapavir into the national HIV prevention framework.

Bashorun emphasised that the arrival of the long-acting injectable drug demonstrates Nigeria’s resolve to scale up innovative solutions in the fight against HIV, adding that the programme remains committed to advancing equitable access to HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care services nationwide.

“Together, Nigeria moves closer to ending HIV as a public health threat,” he said.

Long-acting injectable Lenacapavir is administered once every six months as a subcutaneous injection and has been approved as a highly effective PrEP option for HIV prevention, offering an alternative to daily oral pills. The drug was recommended for use by the World Health Organization in 2025.