By Joseph Erunke, Abuja
Nigeria has taken a significant step in its fight against HIV/AIDS with the arrival of a new long-acting injectable drug designed to prevent infection.
The National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme (NASCP) under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare confirmed that the first shipment of Long-Acting Injectable Lenacapavir (LEN) for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) arrived on March 10, 2026.
Unlike traditional daily oral PrEP, the injectable provides longer-lasting protection, which experts say could improve adherence among individuals at risk of HIV infection. The initiative, supported by the Global Fund, is expected to expand prevention options and increase access to services, particularly for populations facing challenges with daily medication routines.
“With the arrival of Long-Acting Injectable Lenacapavir, Nigeria is expanding prevention choices and strengthening service delivery to reduce new infections and improve health outcomes,” NASCP stated.
Dr. Adebobola Bashorun, Federal Director and National Coordinator of NASCP, said the introduction underscores the government’s commitment to deploying innovative tools to fight HIV, enhance prevention, testing, treatment, and care, and move closer to eliminating HIV as a public health threat.
NASCP officials added that the drug will be strategically integrated into the national HIV prevention programme in collaboration with partners and stakeholders to ensure safe and effective deployment.
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