Photo illustration
Elegbede Abiodun
HIV prevention drug expected in Nigeria by March.
Nigeria is preparing to introduce a new, long-acting HIV prevention drug, with the first shipments expected to arrive later this month.
In a statement released on Monday, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) said it is finalising plans for the rollout of Lenacapavir, also known as LEN, as part of the country’s pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) programme. The agency noted that supplies of the drug are due in March 2026.
Lenacapavir is an injectable HIV prevention treatment administered just twice a year. Clinical trials have shown it offers near-complete protection against HIV infection, marking a major development in efforts to curb new cases.
According to NACA, the move forms part of the federal government’s broader strategy to speed up progress toward controlling the HIV epidemic. Officials say work is already underway to ensure the rollout is carefully planned and meets quality standards, particularly in states with higher HIV burdens.
Nigeria has secured regulatory clearance for the drug from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), clearing a key hurdle ahead of distribution.
The agency also revealed that readiness assessments have been completed in 10 states — Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Ebonyi, the Federal Capital Territory, Gombe, Kano, Kwara, and Lagos — to evaluate health facilities’ capacity and identify gaps that need addressing before implementation.
To support the rollout, NACA conducted a national training-of-trainers programme in Abuja, followed by step-down sessions for healthcare workers in selected states. Public awareness materials have also been developed to help educate communities and encourage uptake once the drug becomes available.
Health authorities say the phased introduction of Lenacapavir is designed to ensure that systems, personnel, and communities are fully prepared, as Nigeria works to strengthen HIV prevention and reduce new infections nationwide.
