Abuja – Nigeria has introduced lenacapavir, a new long‑acting injectable medicine for HIV prevention, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to reduce new infections and advance national HIV goals. The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare launched the intervention with support from World Health Organization (WHO), the Global Fund, United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and partners.
The rollout aligns with national priorities set out in the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the National HIV/AIDS Strategic Framework 2023–2027, which call for expanded access to effective prevention tools, reduced inequalities and stronger integration of HIV services within primary health care.
A timely option for people who need more choices
Nigeria has approximately an estimated 1.9 million people living with HIV. Young women and key populations continue to carry a significant share of the burden. Many people who could benefit from pre‑exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) report challenges with daily oral medication, including adherence, stigma and access.
Lenacapavir provides an alternative. It is taken as a single injection every six months. Findings from the Purpose 1 and Purpose 2 studies, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, showed high levels of protection for people at substantial risk of HIV.
This offers a new option for those who prefer less frequent dosing or face barriers to daily pills.
During the national launch, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, said the intervention reflects Nigeria’s commitment to applying innovation to reduce new HIV infections and strengthen domestic ownership of health programmes.
The government has increased national health financing, including a budget allocation of US$ 346 million in 2026 to support priority areas such as HIV prevention, laboratories and improvements in primary health care.
For many people, the new option represents a practical solution. Aseme Josephine, Chairperson of the Nigeria Key Populations Health and Rights Network (NKPHRN), who previously used daily oral PrEP, described her experience.
“Taking a pill every day was not easy for me. I sometimes forgot and worried about my risk. Knowing that I can use an injection every six months makes me feel more protected and less stressed. I am taking it for every young person who uses drugs, and every member of our community who deserves protection without fear or barriers,” she said.
Health workers also recognise the potential benefits. The Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Coordinator in Maitama District Hospital in the Federal Capital Territory, Dr Babatunde Abegunde, noted that longer‑acting options may help reduce stigma.
“This is a game‑changer in the fight against HIV. Some clients do not want to be seen collecting PrEP monthly. An injection given in a private room every few months will now make a big difference,” he said.
Setting up services across states
Nigeria’s preparedness for the rollout follows several years of coordinated work. With WHO technical support, more than 70 health facilities across 10 states were assessed to determine their readiness for PrEP delivery. These assessments helped identify needs in training, supply management, counselling and monitoring.
The first phase of implementation will begin in eight states: Benue, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Ebonyi, Gombe, Kwara, the Federal Capital Territory and Cross River. Nigeria is one of nine early adopters globally and is expected to receive around 180 000 doses by 2028.
WHO continues to provide guidance for the safe and equitable introduction of new PrEP options, including support for policy adaptation, health worker training and service integration.
What Nigeria aims to achieve
The introduction of lenacapavir is expected to contribute to:
- increased PrEP coverage among populations at substantial risk
- improved adherence due to less frequent dosing
- reduced inequalities in access
- strengthened integration of HIV prevention into primary health care
Projections on expected reductions in new infections will be added once national modelling results are available.
A collective effort
Nigeria’s partners note that the launch demonstrates strong collaboration among government, donors and technical agencies. The Global Fund and PEPFAR continue to support procurement, service delivery and community engagement. Civil society organizations are working to raise awareness and support demand creation, particularly among young people.
Looking ahead
As the rollout begins, Nigeria plans to expand availability gradually, ensuring that services remain safe, person‑centred and accessible. Continued investment in communities, health worker training and public education will be essential.
WHO will continue working with national authorities and partners to guide implementation, monitor safety and support evidence‑based decision‑making.
Call to action
Nigeria’s introduction of long‑acting PrEP shows the value of leadership, data and strong partnerships. Sustained commitment from all sectors will help ensure that people who stand to benefit most are reached, informed and empowered to take decisions that protect their health.
