The initiative, led by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, is being implemented with support from global partners including the World Health Organization, The Global Fund, and PEPFAR.
Health authorities say the rollout aligns with key national frameworks such as the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the National HIV/AIDS Strategic Framework 2023–2027, both of which prioritise expanded access to prevention services, reduced inequalities, and stronger integration of HIV care into primary health systems.
New prevention option to improve access and adherence
With an estimated 1.9 million people living with HIV in Nigeria, officials say there is an urgent need to scale up effective prevention tools—particularly among young women and key populations who remain disproportionately affected.
Lenacapavir offers a significant shift from conventional daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Administered as a single injection every six months, it provides a more convenient alternative for individuals who face challenges such as stigma, inconsistent access, or difficulty adhering to daily medication routines.
Clinical findings from the Purpose 1 and Purpose 2 studies, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, have demonstrated high levels of protection among people at substantial risk of HIV infection.
Speaking at the national launch, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, said the adoption of the new intervention reflects Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging innovation in public health.
He noted that increased domestic funding—including a US$346 million allocation in the 2026 budget—will support priority areas such as HIV prevention, laboratory systems, and primary health care improvements.
Communities and health workers welcome innovation
Stakeholders say the new injectable option could help address long-standing barriers to HIV prevention.
Chairperson of the Nigeria Key Populations Health and Rights Network, Aseme Josephine, described the treatment as a practical and less stressful alternative to daily pills, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Similarly, health professionals highlight the potential of the drug to reduce stigma associated with frequent clinic visits. Babatunde Abegunde, an Antiretroviral Therapy Coordinator in the Federal Capital Territory, said longer-acting options could make prevention more discreet and accessible.
Phased rollout across states
Preparations for the rollout have been ongoing for several years, with technical support from WHO enabling readiness assessments in over 70 health facilities across 10 states. These evaluations focused on strengthening training, supply chains, counselling services, and monitoring systems.
The first phase of implementation will cover eight states—Benue, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Ebonyi, Gombe, Kwara, Cross River—and the Federal Capital Territory. Nigeria is among nine early-adopting countries globally and is expected to receive approximately 180,000 doses by 2028.
Expected impact and next steps
Health officials say the introduction of lenacapavir is expected to significantly expand PrEP coverage, improve adherence through less frequent dosing, reduce disparities in access, and further integrate HIV prevention into primary health care services.
Development partners, including the Global Fund and PEPFAR, are continuing to support procurement, service delivery, and community engagement, while civil society organisations focus on raising awareness and encouraging uptake—particularly among young people.
As implementation begins, authorities emphasise the importance of sustained investment in community outreach, health worker training, and public education to ensure equitable access.
The WHO says it will continue working with Nigeria to guide the safe introduction of the new prevention tool, monitor outcomes, and support evidence-based decision-making as the country advances toward its HIV reduction targets.