The Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (National Agency for the Control of AIDS), Dr Temitope Ilorin, has described the introduction of the Long-Acting Injectable Lenacapavir (LEN PrEP) programme as a significant milestone in strengthening HIV prevention services in Nigeria, particularly in Anambra State.
Dr Ilorin made the remarks during the official launch of the programme at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital), Amaku-Awka.
She was represented at the event by Programme Officer Gloria Asuquo, on behalf of the Director of the Community Prevention and Support Services Department, Dr James Anenih.
Strengthening National HIV Prevention Strategy
According to the NACA Director-General, the initiative reflects Nigeria’s commitment to expanding access to modern and effective HIV prevention options, as well as improving health outcomes for individuals and communities at risk.
She commended the Anambra State Government under Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo for the successful rollout of the programme and expressed optimism about continued collaboration toward achieving an AIDS-free Nigeria.
Dr Ilorin also acknowledged the contributions of implementing partners, healthcare workers, and stakeholders, describing their involvement as critical to the success of the national HIV response.
Support from International and National Partners
The programme is being supported by The Global Fund in collaboration with the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme (NASCP) and State-level implementing structures.
Health authorities confirmed that the injectable prevention drug will be available at selected health facilities, including the Federal Medical Centre Onitsha, Trauma Centre Oba, Comprehensive Health Centres in Ukpo and Neni, as well as the OSS facility in Awka.
The intervention is part of a broader rollout across eight states in Nigeria following its national launch in March.
Twice-Yearly Preventive Option
Health officials explained that Lenacapavir (LEN PrEP) offers a long-acting HIV prevention method administered twice yearly, free of charge, as part of efforts to improve adherence and expand preventive coverage.
State Government Emphasises Prevention
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, said the state’s HIV strategy is focused strongly on prevention as a pathway to reducing new infections.
He noted that the state’s relatively high prevalence figures are partly linked to increased testing and awareness, which has improved case identification.
Dr Obidike added that the programme would strengthen protection for high-risk populations and contribute significantly to reducing transmission rates.
Hospital Leadership Highlights Long-Term Impact
The Chief Medical Director of the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital), Dr Maureen Umeakuewulu, described the intervention as timely, particularly amid rising HIV cases among adolescents and young adults.
She expressed optimism that expanded access to preventive medication would significantly reduce HIV incidence in the state and across the country.
Dr Umeakuewulu also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for including Anambra among the pilot states for the rollout and praised Governor Soludo for his support in strengthening healthcare delivery in the state.
