Nigeria is set to receive its first consignments of the landmark Lenacapavir, a new HIV prevention medicine, in March 2026, the federal government has disclosed.
In a statement on Monday, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS said work is already under way to introduce the injectable drug as part of the country’s pre-exposure prophylaxis programme.
The agency described the move as a critical step in strengthening HIV prevention efforts and hastening progress towards ending the epidemic.
Lenacapavir is a shift from daily oral PrEP, as it is administered by injection just twice a year. Clinical studies have shown that the medicine can significantly cut the risk of HIV transmission, offering near-complete protection when used correctly.
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NACA said preparations for deployment are being carefully sequenced to ensure an orderly and quality-driven launch, beginning with selected high-burden states. It confirmed that the product has secured regulatory clearance from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, clearing a key hurdle ahead of importation.
The agency, further informed that it conducted assessments in 10 states to include Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Ebonyi, the Federal Capital Territory, Gombe, Kano, Kwara and Lagos, examining service delivery capacity and identifying gaps that need to be addressed before distribution begins.
It also said a national training-of-trainers session has also been completed in Abuja, with cascade training rolled out to frontline health workers in the initial implementation states. NACA said this would help ensure that providers are equipped to administer the injection safely and counsel patients appropriately.
The agency confirmed that public sensitisation efforts are also being ramped up with information, education and communication materials developed to build awareness and stimulate demand ahead of the anticipated arrival of supplies.
