The Anambra State Government has launched the distribution of Lenacapavir (LEN PrEP), a long-acting injectable medication designed to prevent HIV infection, as part of efforts to reduce new cases and improve access to preventive healthcare services.
The injection, administered twice a year, is being provided free of charge at selected health facilities across the state, including Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre, the Trauma Centre in Oba, and Comprehensive Health Centres in Ukpo and Neni.
Speaking during the launch, Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Afam Obidike, described the programme as a major step toward reducing HIV transmission, especially among vulnerable and high-risk groups.
He noted that prevention remains one of the strongest strategies in combating HIV/AIDS and said the introduction of the long-acting injectable drug represents significant progress in the stateâs public health response.
Obidike also cautioned health workers against diverting or selling the medication, stressing that the drug is strictly intended for public health purposes and must remain accessible to eligible residents free of charge.
He commended Chukwuma Soludo for supporting healthcare reforms and expanding access to critical medical services across the state.
The Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Maureen Umeakuewulu, described the rollout as timely, particularly in response to increasing HIV prevalence among adolescents.
She also praised Bola Tinubu for approving Anambra as one of the states selected for the initiative.
Anambra State AIDS Programme Coordinator Tonia Mbagwu revealed that the state currently records an HIV prevalence rate of 2.4 percent, the highest in Nigeriaâs South-East region.
According to her, nearly 100,000 residents are living with HIV, underscoring the urgent need for stronger prevention campaigns and improved healthcare interventions.
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Representatives of the World Health Organization, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, and other development partners attended the launch event, which concluded with the administration of the injectable drug to the first beneficiaries.
Health officials said the twice-yearly injection offers a more convenient alternative to daily HIV prevention pills and could significantly improve treatment adherence while reducing new infections among at-risk populations.
