Fresh development emerges as Nigeria records shift in HIV cases

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Nigeria recorded a decline in reported HIV cases between January and April 2026 amid rising demand for Lenacapavir, the newly introduced twice-yearly HIV prevention injection, across several states.

The government has selected eight states for the initial implementation of the programme, with increasing demand from Nigerians, as the anti-HIV injection is administered once every six months and is used for both treatment and prevention of HIV infection.

States where the HIV prevention programme is currently being piloted include Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Ebonyi, Gombe, Kano, and Kwara, alongside the Federal Capital Territory.

Between January and April 2026, data from the National Data Repository showed that reported HIV cases declined steadily, dropping from 8,494 cases in January to 7,893 in February, 7,814 in March, and 6,458 in April.

The Federal Government began deploying Lenacapavir to help prevent HIV infection among people considered at risk, a development believed to have contributed to the decline.

The first shipment of the injectable medication was officially received in Nigeria on March 10, 2026, with the Federal Government securing more than 52,000 doses for the initial rollout phase. So far, 11,520 doses have been delivered into the country.

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, while announcing the arrival of the medication, described the development as another major step in Nigeria’s effort to end HIV as a public health threat.

The ministry, through the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme, said: “The long-acting injectable provides sustained protection for people at risk of HIV and helps improve adherence to prevention.”

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