The Federal Government has announced that Nigeria will receive the first consignments of the breakthrough HIV prevention drug Lenacapavir in March 2026, marking a significant development in the country’s ongoing efforts to combat the spread of Human Immunodeficiency Virus.
The announcement was made by the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), which disclosed that preparations are already at an advanced stage for the introduction and nationwide rollout of the drug under Nigeria’s Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) programme.
Health officials say the arrival of Lenacapavir could transform HIV prevention strategies in the country because the medication is designed as a long-acting injectable drug administered only twice a year. This represents a major shift from traditional PrEP medications that require individuals to take pills every day.
Clinical studies have shown that the injection significantly reduces the risk of HIV infection and can provide near-total protection when used properly. Public health experts believe the innovation could help overcome one of the biggest challenges in HIV prevention poor adherence to daily medication.
NACA explained that the introduction of the new drug forms part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to accelerate progress in controlling the HIV epidemic and strengthening prevention programmes nationwide.
The agency also confirmed that Lenacapavir has already received regulatory approval from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), clearing the way for its importation and distribution across the country.
To prepare for the rollout, readiness assessments have already been conducted in ten states to evaluate healthcare facilities and determine implementation needs. The states include Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Ebonyi, Federal Capital Territory, Gombe, Kano, Kwara and Lagos.
According to the agency, the assessments were aimed at ensuring that health facilities are fully prepared to administer the injections and manage the programme effectively.
As part of the preparations, NACA has also completed a national “training of trainers” programme in Abuja. The training was followed by step-down sessions for healthcare workers in the selected states to ensure medical professionals are well equipped to safely administer the injection and provide appropriate counselling to patients.
In addition, the agency said it has developed a range of information, education, and communication materials to create public awareness about the new HIV prevention option and encourage its adoption once supplies arrive in the country.
Health experts believe the introduction of Lenacapavir could significantly strengthen Nigeria’s HIV prevention efforts, particularly among populations at higher risk of infection.
If successfully implemented, the twice-yearly injection could address one of the most persistent barriers in HIV prevention programmes consistent adherence to daily PrEP medication thereby helping reduce new infections and improving public health outcomes nationwide.
