Ebonyi State has launched the six-monthly injectable HIV prevention drug, Lenacapavir (LEN PrEP), marking a shift from daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis. The rollout took place at General Hospital Ezzangbo in Ohaukwu Local Government Area, with the state Commissioner for Health, Moses Ekuma, describing the innovation as a major advancement in curbing new infections. Ekuma noted that the twice-yearly injection offers a more effective alternative to daily pills, particularly for young people in vulnerable populations, and helps address challenges like stigma and poor adherence. He emphasized that LEN PrEP complements existing prevention strategies, including HIV testing, condom use, behavioral interventions, and treatment services. The state government expressed appreciation to the Federal Minister of Health, Prof Ali Pate, and the National AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections Control and Hepatitis Programme (NASCP) for selecting Ebonyi as one of eight pilot states for the initiative. Support for the program comes from the World Health Organisation, the Global Fund, and the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Eight facilities across Ebonyi will offer the injection, including Alex Ekwueme Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, General Hospital Ezzangbo, General Hospital Onueke, and Ebonyi State University Community. The state AIDS Programme Coordinator, Clement Ogodo, confirmed the designated centers and pledged public enlightenment on accessing the service. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Lawrence Ezeogo, called the injection a "revolution" and a game changer for adherence and stigma reduction. Director of Public Health, Hyacinth Ebenyi, urged high-risk individuals to take advantage of the prevention option. Nigeria introduced Lenacapavir nationally on 31 March, aligning with the National HIV/AIDS Strategic Framework 2023–2027 and the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative. The pilot states include Anambra, Ebonyi, Gombe, Kwara, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Benue, and the FCT.
Ebonyi's adoption of a twice-yearly HIV injection bypasses the challenge of daily pill adherence, yet the focus on select facilities risks excluding rural populations not near the eight designated centers. The state's reliance on global funding through the Global Fund and PEPFAR raises questions about long-term sustainability if domestic financing remains underdeveloped. While Governor Nwifuru's administration is praised for prioritizing health, the success of LEN PrEP will depend on equitable access beyond urban clinics. Without broader rollout, the initiative may deepen existing health disparities within the state.
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