The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has advised against the use of the long-acting HIV prevention shot, Lenacapavir, for expectant mothers.
Speaking at a media parley in Abuja on Monday, NACA Director-General Dr. Temitope Ilori clarified that while global clinical trials show the drug has a high safety margin, there is currently insufficient data regarding its effects during pregnancy.
The event was organized by the National HIV, Viral Hepatitis, and STDs Control Programme under the Federal Ministry of Health.
“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,” she said.
She described Lenacapavir as an innovative addition to HIV prevention but stressed that it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis.
“We must stress that it does not prevent sexually transmitted infections or other infections like hepatitis. People must continue to take comprehensive precautions,” she added.
Also speaking, the National Coordinator of the National AIDS and STDs Control Programme, Adebobola Bashorun, said the government is working to expand access to the drug across more states.
“As we scale up, we are exploring catalytic funding to increase the number of doses and extend coverage to populations most at risk,” Bashorun said.
He noted that Lenacapavir would complement existing HIV prevention methods such as oral pre-exposure prophylaxis, rather than replace them.
“We already have multiple prevention options. Individuals can still use oral PrEP. National policy guidelines will determine how best to integrate this new option into existing programmes,” he added.
On safety, Bashorun said reported side effects have been mild and mostly limited to injection-site reactions.
“The common side effects include pain at the injection site, which is expected. We are actively monitoring for any adverse reactions and so far, the outcomes are encouraging,” he said.
Earlier, the Minister of State for Health, Iziaq Salako, said the introduction of Lenacapavir in Nigeria is being supported through partnership with the Global Fund.
“This drug is being made available through a partnership with the Global Fund. Over time, we expect to engage manufacturers directly and explore pathways for local production,” he said.
Lenacapavir, developed by Gilead Sciences, has gained global attention as a potential breakthrough in HIV prevention.
Unlike daily oral PrEP, it is administered as an injection twice a year, offering a more convenient option for individuals who struggle with adherence.
Persecondnews recalls that Nigeria continues to bear a significant HIV burden, with an estimated 1.9 million people living with the virus.
While access to treatment has improved, prevention gaps remain, particularly among young people and vulnerable populations.
Health experts say while Lenacapavir presents a promising addition to HIV prevention efforts, its long-term success will depend on accessibility, sustainable funding, and effective integration into existing health systems.
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