HIV PREVENTION DRUG TO ARRIVE NIGERIA IN MARCH- FG
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BY JENN NOMAMIUKOR
The federal government states that shipments of Lenacapavir, a new drug used to prevent HIV, are expected to reach Nigeria in March 2026.
On Monday, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) said they are working on getting ready to start using 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 Governm
ent’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 stated that Nigeria is moving forward with a step-by-step plan to start offering LEN PrEP, supported by regulatory approval, readiness of systems, trained staff, and efforts to involve the community.
They mentioned that one of the achievements so far is getting approval from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
Additionally, they shared that assessments of the situation and preparedness have been done in 10 states: Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Ebonyi, FCT, Gombe, Kano, Kwara, and Lagos.
These assessments were done to check how well services can be provided and to find out what needs to be done to carry out the program.
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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