The Anambra State Government has begun distributing Lenacapavir (LEN PrEP), a long-acting injectable drug designed to prevent HIV infection, as part of efforts to reduce new HIV cases and strengthen public health across the state.
Health authorities described the rollout as a major advancement in HIV prevention, noting that the medication provides a more convenient option than daily preventive pills. The injection is administered just twice a year for people considered at higher risk of HIV exposure.
The medication will be provided free of charge at selected health facilities, including Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital in Awka, Federal Medical Centre Onitsha, Trauma Centre Oba, Comprehensive Health Centres in Ukpo and Neni, and OSS Awka.
Speaking during the launch, Anambra State Commissioner for Health Dr. Afam Obidike said prevention remains one of the strongest tools in combating HIV/AIDS. He explained that the introduction of LEN PrEP would improve access to preventive care, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Obidike also warned against the illegal sale or misuse of the medication and praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo for supporting healthcare reforms and HIV awareness efforts in the state.
The Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Prof. Maureen Umeakuewulu, described the programme as timely amid growing concerns about HIV infections among adolescents. She commended the Federal Government for including Anambra among the states selected for the initiative.
Meanwhile, Anambra State AIDS Programme Coordinator Tonia Mbagwu revealed that the state has an HIV prevalence rate of 2.4 percent — the highest in Nigeria’s South-East region — with more than 56,000 residents currently living with HIV.
Representatives from the World Health Organization, the National AIDS and STIs Control Programme, and other health partners attended the launch and witnessed the first administration of the injectable treatment to eligible beneficiaries.
