Nigeria is set to roll out lenacapavir the twice-yearly HIV prevention injection following its recent introduction in South Africa, Eswatini, and Zambia.
NACA Director General, Temitope Ilori, announced the development during the 2025 World AIDS Day event in Abuja, saying the country is committed to ensuring access to the new $40 injection.
According to Premium Times, Ilori described the drug as part of a “remarkable scientific evolution” in HIV prevention, noting that its cost dropped from $28,000 to $40 per person per year through partnerships with Unit aid and the Gates Foundation.
Read also: Experts Urge Govt To Tackle HIV Stigma, Strengthen Awareness
Nigeria currently has an HIV prevalence rate of 1.3% among adults aged 15–49, with about 1.9 million people living with the virus. The country has also recorded strong progress toward global HIV targets, achieving an 87-98-95 performance and a 46% reduction in new infections over the past decade.
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu called for continued advocacy and compassion, stressing the need to confront stigma and discrimination to fully end the epidemic.
The rollout of lenacapavir marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s HIV response, offering renewed hope for millions at risk and reinforcing the nation’s drive toward an AIDS-free future.
