Nigeria has introduced lenacapavir, a new long‑acting injectable medicine for HIV prevention, marking a major step in the country’s efforts to reduce new infections and strengthen national HIV programs. The rollout, supported by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, WHO, the Global Fund, PEPFAR, and partners, aligns with Nigeria’s Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the National HIV/AIDS Strategic Framework 2023–2027, which prioritize expanded access to effective prevention tools, reduced inequalities, and stronger integration of HIV services within primary health care.
With an estimated 1.9 million people living with HIV in Nigeria, young women and key populations bear a significant burden. Many who could benefit from pre‑exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) face challenges with daily oral medication, including adherence, stigma, and access. Lenacapavir offers an alternative as a single injection every six months, providing high levels of protection for people at substantial risk, as demonstrated in the Purpose 1 and Purpose 2 studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine. This long‑acting option addresses barriers to daily pills and gives users greater convenience and privacy.
During the national launch, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to innovation in reducing HIV infections and strengthening domestic health program ownership. The government has also increased national health financing, including a US$346 million allocation in 2026 for priority areas such as HIV prevention, laboratory services, and primary health care improvements. Community members and health workers have highlighted the practical benefits of the new option, noting improved adherence, reduced stress, and lower stigma.
Preparations for the rollout included assessments of over 70 health facilities across 10 states with WHO technical support, addressing training, supply management, counselling, and monitoring needs. The first phase 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, expected to receive around 180,000 doses by 2028, with WHO providing ongoing guidance for safe and equitable implementation.
The introduction of lenacapavir aims to increase PrEP coverage among high-risk populations, improve adherence through less frequent dosing, reduce inequalities in access, and integrate HIV prevention more fully into primary health care. National projections for reductions in new infections will follow once modeling results are available. Strong collaboration among government, donors, technical agencies, and civil society will support awareness, demand creation, and service delivery, particularly for young people.
As rollout progresses, Nigeria plans to gradually expand availability, maintaining safe, person-centered, and accessible services. Continued investment in communities, health worker training, and public education will be critical, with WHO supporting implementation, monitoring, and evidence-based decision-making. The initiative demonstrates the importance of leadership, data, and partnerships to ensure people most at risk can access and benefit from long-acting HIV prevention.
