The Ebonyi State Government has officially launched the Long-Lasting Injectable Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, Lenacapavir (LEN PrEP), for HIV prevention.
The antiretroviral injection is administered once every six months.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Moses Ekuma, made the announcement during the launch at the General Hospital Ezzangbo in Ohaukwu Local Government Area.
Ekuma described the innovation as a major advancement in HIV prevention, noting that the twice-yearly injection is a better alternative to daily oral PrEP.
“HIV remains a public health concern, especially among young people in our vulnerable population,” he said. “The state has been proactive in preventing new infections despite challenges such as stigmatisation and poor adherence to daily medication.”
The commissioner emphasised that Lenacapavir is not a replacement for other preventive measures but forms part of a comprehensive strategy that includes testing, condom use, behavioural interventions, and treatment services.
He thanked the Minister of Health, Prof. Ali Pate, and the National AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections Control and Hepatitis Programme (NASCP) for selecting Ebonyi as one of eight pilot states for the rollout.
“This demonstrates commitment to adopting evidence-based innovations that will improve the health and well-being of our people,” Ekuma said.
He commended global development partners for their support in ending HIV/AIDS and praised Governor Francis Nwifuru and his wife for their investments in the state’s health sector.
The Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Health, Dr Lawrence Ezeogo, described the new HIV prevention tool as a game-changer for adherence and stigma reduction.
The Director of Public Health in the ministry, Dr Hyacinth Ebenyi, urged residents, especially those at substantial risk of HIV infection, to take advantage of the opportunity.
The State AIDS Programme Coordinator, Mr Clement Ogodo, said the injection is available at eight designated facilities, including the Alex Ekwueme Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, General Hospital Ezzangbo, General Hospital Onueke, and the EBSU Teaching Hospital, among others.
Nigeria introduced Lenacapavir on March 31, marking a significant step in efforts to reduce new HIV infections. The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare launched the intervention with support from the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Global Fund, the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), and other partners.
The rollout aligns with national priorities in the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the National HIV/AIDS Strategic Framework 2023–2027.
The pilot states are Anambra, Ebonyi, Gombe, Kwara, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
