Mirian Gom 
MAKURDI, Nigeria – The Benue State Government launches Lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention injection, in a major effort to reduce rising HIV infections in one of Nigeria’s hardest-hit states.
Benue State Commissioner for Health Paul Ogwuche describes the rollout on Wednesday in Makurdi as a “historic turning point” in the state’s HIV response.
The injectable medication, administered twice yearly, serves as a long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis aimed at preventing HIV infection among vulnerable populations.
“For many years HIV prevention has relied heavily on daily oral PrEP,” Ogwuche says.
“This new injection offers a discreet, convenient and highly effective prevention option.”
According to the Nigeria AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey, Benue State records an HIV prevalence rate of 4.7 per cent, among the highest in the country.
Health officials say the intervention targets adolescent girls, young women, key populations and serodiscordant couples considered at higher risk of infection.
The commissioner says the state government will prioritise equitable access to ensure both rural and urban communities benefit from the programme.
Authorities also plan community-led awareness campaigns and data-driven monitoring through the State AIDS and STI Control Programme.
The launch takes place in collaboration with partners including the World Health Organization, AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria, AIDS Healthcare Foundation and the Clinton Health Access Initiative.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Cephas Hough, says the introduction of Lenacapavir reflects government commitment to innovative HIV prevention strategies.
The rollout marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s HIV prevention efforts as health authorities intensify campaigns to end AIDS transmission by 2030.
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