Nigeria has received its first supplies of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable medicine that health authorities say could transform HIV prevention efforts across the country.

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare confirmed the arrival of the drug, describing it as a major step in the national strategy to curb new HIV infections. Lenacapavir, often referred to as LEN, is administered just twice a year, offering an alternative to daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis for people at substantial risk of infection.

According to the National HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STDs Control Programme, the introduction of Lenacapavir is intended to broaden prevention choices and make it easier for vulnerable groups to stay protected. Many people who struggle with the discipline or stigma associated with taking a daily pill may find a discreet biannual injection more acceptable and convenient.

Health officials say the rollout will be carefully managed. The government, working with partners and technical agencies, plans to integrate Lenacapavir into existing HIV prevention services, including counselling, testing and treatment programmes. Training for health workers, clear eligibility guidelines and robust pharmacovigilance systems are expected to underpin the deployment.

Experts note that long-acting prevention tools like Lenacapavir could be particularly valuable for key populations and communities where adherence to daily medication is difficult because of mobility, poverty, discrimination or limited access to health facilities.

The drug is expected to be made available in Nigeria and more than 100 other low- and middle-income countries at a significantly reduced price through voluntary licensing agreements with generic manufacturers. At an estimated cost of about 40 dollars per person per year, Lenacapavir is being positioned as a scalable option for public health programmes.

Officials frame the arrival of Lenacapavir as part of a broader push to end HIV as a public health threat. Alongside prevention, Nigeria continues to expand testing and antiretroviral treatment, aiming to reduce transmission, improve quality of life for people living with HIV and close gaps in access between urban and rural areas.

With Lenacapavir now in-country, attention will turn to how quickly and effectively it can be delivered to those who need it most, and whether its promise of twice-yearly protection can translate into fewer new infections and stronger community health outcomes.