Nigeria to introduce new HIV prevention injection nationwide
The Federal Government has announced plans to introduce Lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention injection, as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s HIV response. Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, said the initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to expanding prevention services and increasing domestic financing. Nigeria, which has the second-largest HIV epidemic globally, will be among the first countries to adopt this new prevention method. The rollout aims to provide more options for individuals at high risk of HIV.
Highlights
- Iziaq Salako stated that about 52,000 doses of Lenacapavir have been secured for the initial phase.
- Nigeria was selected by the Global Fund as one of nine early adopter countries for Lenacapavir for pre-exposure prophylaxis.
- Lenacapavir is administered once every six months, offering an alternative to daily oral PrEP regimens.
- Adebobola Bashorun said the Federal Government is working to expand access to the drug across more states and populations most at risk.
- Reported side effects have been mild, mostly limited to pain at the injection site, and the drug will complement existing HIV prevention methods.
