Nigeria recorded a steady decline in reported HIV cases from January to April 2026, coinciding with the rollout of Lenacapavir, a newly approved twice‑yearly injectable used for HIV prevention and treatment.
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare identified eight states for the initial phase of the programme: Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Ebonyi, Gombe, Kano and Kwara, together with the Federal Capital Territory. Lenacapavir is administered once every six months, offering long‑acting protection for individuals at risk of HIV infection.
Data from the National Data Repository show a month‑by‑month reduction in reported cases: 8,494 in January, 7,893 in February, 7,814 in March and 6,458 in April. Officials attribute the downward trend in part to the government’s deployment of the injectable as a preventive measure.
The first shipment of Lenacapavir arrived in Nigeria on 10 March 2026. The government secured more than 52,000 doses for the pilot rollout, and 11,520 doses have already been distributed to the selected states and the capital territory. In a statement, the ministry described the arrival as a “significant step” toward eliminating HIV as a public health threat.
Through the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme, the ministry highlighted the benefits of the long‑acting injectable, noting that it provides sustained protection and improves adherence compared with daily oral regimens.
The early results suggest that the Lenacapavir programme could accelerate Nigeria’s progress toward its national HIV‑free goals. Monitoring will continue as additional doses are released and the pilot expands to other regions.
