Nigeria is set to receive Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking HIV prevention drug, in March 2026 as part of the country’s efforts to reduce new infections and improve public health outcomes.
The announcement was made by the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), which confirmed that preparations for the drug’s rollout are already underway.
According to NACA, the drug has received regulatory clearance from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), allowing it to be introduced into Nigeria’s HIV prevention program.
Lenacapavir: A Major Step in HIV Prevention
Lenacapavir is an injectable Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) medication designed to prevent HIV infection.
Unlike daily oral PrEP pills, this treatment is administered twice a year, making it a more convenient option for people at risk of contracting HIV.
Clinical trials have shown nearly 100% effectiveness in preventing HIV infection, positioning the drug as one of the most promising breakthroughs in HIV prevention.
Health authorities believe the injection will improve adherence to prevention programs since patients will no longer need to remember to take daily medication.
Affordable Access for Nigeria and Other Countries
Through voluntary licensing agreements with generic pharmaceutical manufacturers, Lenacapavir will be supplied at an estimated cost of about $40 per person annually.
This pricing structure is designed to ensure access for Nigeria and 119 other low- and middle-income countries.
NACA stated that Nigeria is currently advancing logistical preparations to ensure the successful introduction of the drug once supplies arrive.
Rollout Preparations Across Nigerian States
Before the nationwide rollout, readiness assessments have been completed in several states, including Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Ebonyi, the Federal Capital Territory, Gombe, Kano, Kwara, and Lagos.
These evaluations examined health system capacity, supply chains, and program readiness to ensure the effective distribution of the HIV prevention medication.
Nigeria’s Ongoing HIV Challenge
Nigeria currently has an estimated 1.9 million people living with HIV, with a national prevalence rate of about 1.3% among adults aged 15 to 49.
Public health data indicates that the South-South region records the highest HIV prevalence at 3.1%, while women in the same age group are more than twice as likely to be living with HIV compared to men.
Health officials say the introduction of Lenacapavir could significantly strengthen Nigeria’s HIV prevention strategy and help accelerate progress toward ending the AIDS epidemic in the coming years.
