In a statement issued by the agency’s Head of Public Relations, Toyin Aderibigbe, NACA confirmed that groundwork for a phased introduction of the drug is already in progress. Readiness assessments have been completed in 10 states, including Lagos, Kano, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory, positioning them among the first to implement the new prevention strategy.
Lenacapavir, an injectable HIV prevention treatment administered just twice a year, offers a convenient alternative to daily oral PrEP medications. Health authorities say the long-acting option is expected to improve adherence, reduce barriers associated with daily pill-taking, and significantly strengthen the country’s HIV prevention response.
According to NACA, the introduction of Lenacapavir forms part of broader efforts to accelerate progress toward HIV epidemic control in Nigeria. The drug is projected to be made available not only in Nigeria but also in 119 other low- and middle-income countries at an affordable cost of approximately $40 per person annually. This pricing arrangement follows voluntary licensing agreements with generic manufacturers aimed at expanding equitable access.
Regulatory clearance for the drug has already been secured from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), clearing the way for formal distribution once supplies arrive.
To support effective deployment, NACA has conducted a national training-of-trainers programme in Abuja, with subsequent step-down training sessions for healthcare workers in participating states. In addition, information, education, and communication materials have been developed to promote awareness and community engagement.
The agency emphasised that the rollout will follow a structured and quality-assured approach, ensuring that the new prevention option is safely integrated into existing HIV services while expanding access to innovative and user-friendly interventions.