Nigeria to receive twice-yearly HIV prevention injection in March – Official
Naija News • 2h ago
**Breaking News: Twice-Yearly HIV Prevention Injection Hits Nigeria in March**
Nigeria is set to receive stockpiles of a revolutionary new HIV prevention injection, Lenacapavir, in March 2026. This groundbreaking development marks a significant milestone in the country's efforts to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS. According to the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), the injection will be administered every six months, a departure from the traditional daily oral medications that have been the mainstay of HIV prevention for over a decade.
The introduction of Lenacapavir is a major step towards strengthening HIV prevention in Nigeria. With regulatory clearance from NAFDAC and assessments completed in 10 priority states, the groundwork is in place for a smooth rollout. The agency has also conducted extensive training for healthcare workers and developed awareness materials to educate the public about the new injection.
The twice-yearly injection has the potential to revolutionize HIV prevention in Nigeria, particularly among populations that struggle with adhering to daily medication. According to health experts, the introduction of Lenacapavir could significantly expand the reach and impact of PrEP, leading to a further reduction in new infections.
The federal government has committed to ensuring access to the new injection, with efforts underway to make it available at an affordable cost. While the original price tag of $28,000 per person per year may seem daunting, partnerships involving Unitaid and the Gates Foundation have secured a significantly reduced price of around $40 annually in low- and middle-income countries.
As Nigeria prepares to introduce this game-changing HIV prevention tool, it remains to be seen how effective it will be in reducing new infections. However, one thing is certain: the introduction of Lenacapavir marks a new chapter in Nigeria's fight against HIV/AIDS.