Nigeria to Receive Breakthrough Injectable HIV Prevention Drug Lenacapavir in March 2026

Nigeria to Receive Breakthrough Injectable HIV Prevention Drug Lenacapavir in March 2026

Nigeria is set to receive Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking long-acting injectable drug for HIV prevention, in March 2026, marking a major milestone in the country’s fight against HIV/AIDS.

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Lenacapavir, used as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), has demonstrated near-complete protection against HIV infection in large international clinical trials, with results showing 100% effectiveness among trial participants when administered as prescribed. Health experts describe the development as one of the most significant advances in HIV prevention in decades.

Unlike daily oral PrEP, Lenacapavir is administered twice yearly, a feature expected to improve adherence, reduce stigma, and expand access—especially among young people and high-risk populations.

Public health officials say the introduction of the injectable PrEP could significantly accelerate Nigeria’s progress toward ending new HIV infections, particularly among women, adolescents, and key populations who face barriers to daily medication.

The rollout is expected to complement existing HIV prevention strategies, including testing, counseling, and antiretroviral therapy, strengthening Nigeria’s national HIV response and aligning with global targets to end AIDS as a public health threat.

Health authorities are expected to release detailed implementation guidelines ahead of the March 2026 arrival.

Nigeria to Receive Breakthrough Injectable HIV Prevention Drug Lenacapavir in March 2026