Nigeria has received its first shipment of Long-Acting Injectable Lenacapavir, a revolutionary HIV prevention drug, marking a significant milestone in the country’s fight against HIV.
The drug, approved by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, and supported by the Global Fund, is designed for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and offers a more convenient alternative to daily oral medications.
Dr Adebobola Bashorun, Director and National Coordinator of the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme (NASCP), stated that Lenacapavir expands HIV prevention options, improves adherence, and broadens access to effective services, particularly for populations struggling with daily oral PrEP.
With approximately 1.9 million people living with HIV in Nigeria, this development is crucial in reducing new infections and achieving epidemic control.
Lenacapavir is administered twice yearly and has shown 100% effectiveness in preventing HIV infection during clinical trials.
