FG Announces New HIV Prevention Pill Launching In Nigeria This Month

According to Ireporter Online, the federal government has announced that a new HIV prevention drug, Lenacapavir, will be introduced in Nigeria in March 2026. The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) confirmed that preparations are underway for the rollout of Lenacapavir, a long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) administered via injection twice a year.

NACA described the initiative as part of the government’s commitment to strengthen HIV prevention and accelerate progress toward controlling the epidemic. Clinical trials have shown that Lenacapavir significantly reduces the risk of HIV infection, offering near-total protection.

The agency stated that a structured and quality-assured rollout will begin in priority states, supported by regulatory approval, trained healthcare personnel, and community engagement strategies. Among the key preparations, NACA noted that the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has granted regulatory approval for the drug.

Readiness assessments have been conducted in ten states, including Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Ebonyi, the Federal Capital Territory, Gombe, Kano, Kwara, and Lagos, to evaluate service delivery capacity and identify implementation needs. National and state-level training programs for healthcare workers have been completed, and information, education, and communication materials have been developed to promote awareness and encourage uptake ahead of the launch.