Nigeria has recorded a major step forward in the global fight against HIV, as the Nigerian Government, through the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), announced a significant price reduction for the revolutionary HIV prevention drug, Lenacapavir.
The historic announcement was made during the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) 2025 Annual Meeting, held on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
Under the agreement, the cost of the twice-yearly injectable drug has been slashed from USD 28,000 to just USD 40 per person annually, making it affordable for millions in Nigeria and more than 100 low- and middle-income countries.
Lenacapavir, a cutting-edge prevention medicine, has shown up to 100 percent effectiveness in stopping new HIV infections.
This breakthrough is expected to transform global access to HIV prevention and accelerate efforts to end the epidemic as a public health threat by 2030.
READ MORE:Nigerian Government Inaugurates Health Sector Bargaining Committee
Delivering Nigeria’s statement at the event, the Director General of NACA, Dr. Temi Ilori described the agreement as a turning point;
“Today marks a milestone in our fight against HIV – in Nigeria and globally. Through this landmark access agreement, we are unlocking affordable access tolenacapavir – a transformational new HIV prevention option that offers longer protection, greater convenience, and renewed hope to millions at risk”
“This agreement ensures that this breakthrough innovation does not remain a privilege for the few. It pairs innovation with equity, laying the foundation for broad, long-lasting impact for those who need it most,” Dr Ilori explained.
He said; “The announcement underscores Nigeria’s leadership at the UNGA in driving global health equity and reinforces its commitment to expanding prevention, strengthening health systems, and protecting vulnerable populations.
The achievement was made possible through collaboration with UNITAID, the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), Wits RHI, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. (DRL),and the Gates Foundation.
Dr Ilori said Nigeria’s participation at the event highlights its determination to harness innovation, foster global partnerships, and build a healthier, more resilient future for its people.