The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has clarified that the newly introduced long-acting HIV prevention injection, Lenacapavir (LenPrEP), is not recommended for use among pregnant women, citing insufficient evidence on its safety in that population.
Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja on Monday, the Director-General of NACA, Temitope Ilori, explained that while global studies indicate a high safety margin for the drug, caution remains necessary.
“Even though LenPrEP is considered very safe based on global studies, it is not recommended for pregnant women. It is important to emphasise that this is a preventive intervention, not a treatment,” Ilori said.
Lenacapavir, developed by Gilead Sciences, has gained international attention as a breakthrough in HIV prevention. Administered just twice a year, the injectable offers a more convenient alternative to daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), particularly for individuals who struggle with adherence.
However, Ilori cautioned that the drug does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, stressing the need for comprehensive preventive measures.
Also speaking, the National Coordinator of the National HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STDs Control Programme, Adebobola Bashorun, said the Federal Government is working to expand access to the drug across the country.
“As we scale up, we are exploring catalytic funding to increase the number of doses and extend coverage to populations most at risk,” Bashorun noted, adding that Lenacapavir would complement existing prevention methods rather than replace them.
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On safety, he said reported side effects have been mild, mostly involving injection-site reactions, with ongoing monitoring in place.
Earlier, the Minister of State for Health, Iziaq Salako, disclosed that the rollout of the drug is being supported through partnerships with the Global Fund. He added that discussions are underway to explore local production and reduce long-term dependence on external donors.
Nigeria remains one of the countries most affected by HIV, with an estimated 1.9 million people living with the virus. While progress has been made in treatment access, prevention gaps persist, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Public health experts have described Lenacapavir as a potential “game-changer” in HIV prevention but warn that its success will depend on equitable distribution, sustained funding, and effective integration into Nigeria’s broader health system.
As authorities move forward with its rollout, they emphasise that the injection is an important addition to the HIV prevention toolkit—but not a standalone solution.