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 Health Commissioner Moses Ekuma stating the injection improves adherence and reduces stigma linked to daily medication. Ekuma emphasized that LEN PrEP is not a standalone solution but part of a broader strategy including HIV testing, condom use, behavioral interventions, and treatment services. He credited the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, through Coordinating Minister Ali Pate, for selecting Ebonyi as one of eight pilot states for the initiative. The other pilot states are Anambra, Gombe, Kwara, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory. Ekuma acknowledged global development partners for their support and praised Governor Francis Nwifuru and his wife for their contributions to the state's health system. Permanent Secretary Lawrence Ezeogo described the injection as a "game changer" for HIV prevention, particularly in addressing poor adherence and stigma. Public Health Director Hyacinth Ebenyi urged high-risk individuals to access the service, noting it is available at eight designated facilities, including Alex Ekwueme Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, General Hospital Ezzangbo, General Hospital Onueke, and Ebonyi State University Community. Nigeria officially introduced Lenacapavir on 31 March, under the national Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the National HIV/AIDS Strategic Framework 2023–2027. The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare led the national launch with backing from global partners, aiming to expand access to effective prevention tools and integrate HIV services into primary healthcare. State AIDS Programme Coordinator Clement Ogodo said public awareness campaigns will ensure widespread understanding of the injection and its availability. The initiative aligns with national goals to reduce new HIV infections and address inequalities in access to care.
Ebonyi's adoption of a twice-yearly HIV prevention injection bypasses the challenge of daily pill adherence, yet the state's reliance on federal selection and global partners underscores limited autonomy in health innovation rollout. The eight designated facilities for access may exclude rural populations not near Abakaliki, Ezzangbo, Onueke, or EBSU Community. Governor Nwifuru's praised involvement does not change the fact that Ebonyi did not initiate the programme but was chosen as a recipient. This reflects a top-down health intervention model where state governments implement rather than lead.
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