GROUNDBREAKING HIV PREVENTION DRUG TO ARRIVE NIGERIA IN MARCH SAYS FG

The federal government says consignments of Lenacapavir, a new drug for HIV prevention, are expected to arrive in Nigeria in March 2026.

In a statement on Monday, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), said it is advancing preparations for the introduction and rollout of Lenacapavir (LEN) as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).

It said the the move was part of its commitment to accelerate progress towards HIV epidemic control.

Lenacapavir is a long-acting HIV prevention drug. It is an injectable PrEP option taken only twice a year.

In clinical trials, Lenacapavir was found to significantly reduce the risk of infection and provide almost total protection against HIV.

“The Government of Nigeria (GON) is advancing preparations for the introduction and rollout of Lenacapavir (LEN) as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). This is part of Government’s commitment to strengthen HIV prevention and accelerate progress toward epidemic control,” the statement reads.

“Commodities are expected in country in March 2026.”

According to NACA, coordinated efforts are underway to ensure a “structured and quality-assured rollout” of the new prevention option in priority states.

The agency said Nigeria is on track for a phased introduction of LEN PrEP, backed by regulatory approval, system preparedness, trained personnel and community engagement strategies.

It said among the milestones already achieved is regulatory approval by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

It also disclosed that landscape and readiness assessments have been completed in 10 states: Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Ebonyi, FCT, Gombe, Kano, Kwara and Lagos to evaluate service delivery capacity and identify implementation needs.

NACA also said it has conducted a national training of trainers in Abuja, followed by step-down training for healthcare workers in the states selected for implementation.

In addition, information, education and communication (IEC) materials have been developed to support awareness creation and demand generation ahead of the rollout.

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