FCTA FLAGS OFF ROLLOUT OF 4,000 HIV PREVENTION INJECTABLE DOSES
By: Doris Jonah and Khadijat Kawunda
The Federal Capital Territory Administration has launched the distribution of 4,000 vials of a long-acting HIV prevention injectable drug, Lenacapavir (LENPrEP), to selected primary, secondary, and tertiary health facilities across the territory for free administration.
The flag-off ceremony took place on Tuesday, April 28, at Asokoro District Hospital, marking the inclusion of the FCT as one of the pilot locations selected to pioneer the new intervention in Nigeria.
Speaking during the event, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe said the introduction of LENPrEP would significantly strengthen HIV prevention efforts in the FCT.
She explained that the FCT has an estimated HIV prevalence rate of 1.4 percent, with about 60,000 people currently receiving treatment.
According to her, LENPrEP offers a discreet, convenient, and highly effective option for individuals who may struggle with taking daily preventive pills.
“This is a game changer in our HIV response. It provides a practical alternative that can help reduce new infections,” she said.
Dr. Fasawe added that the initial supply would be deployed in phases, with priority given to high-risk populations in line with approved guidelines.
She noted that the initiative supports the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, which aim for 95 percent of people living with HIV to know their status, 95 percent of diagnosed individuals to receive treatment, and 95 percent of those on treatment to achieve viral suppression.
She further described the rollout as part of a broader combination prevention strategy that includes injectable prevention, oral PrEP, condom use, and behavioural support interventions.
Dr. Fasawe clarified that LENPrEP is not a vaccine and does not replace existing HIV prevention methods. She also cautioned that it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections, urging residents to continue observing established preventive measures.
Earlier, the Director of Administration and Finance, HSES, Comrade Ghali Kasdim, described the initiative as a major milestone in public health.
He said the introduction of long-acting HIV prevention options reflects global progress toward more convenient and patient-friendly solutions.
During a technical presentation, the national clinical mentor for the FCT Dr. Michael Onyilo explained that PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, involves the use of antiretroviral medication by HIV-negative individuals before possible exposure to reduce the risk of infection.
He stated that LENPrEP is administered through subcutaneous injection in the abdomen or thigh and is given twice yearly to eligible persons at risk of HIV exposure.
He listed eligible beneficiaries as HIV-negative individuals at substantial risk, persons requesting PrEP, those without indications for post-exposure prophylaxis, and individuals willing to adhere to prescribed guidelines.
Stakeholders at the event welcomed the initiative.
The FCT Coordinator for AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Dr. Ugochi Ajaero said AIDS Healthcare Foundation was pleased to support the programme as part of efforts to end HIV.
Similarly, Dr. Alfa Gimba reaffirmed the commitment of Association for Reproductive and Family Health to interventions aimed at reducing HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Facilities designated to provide LENPrEP in the FCT include Asokoro District Hospital, Maitama District Hospital, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre Jabi, International Centre for the Advocacy of Right to Health, AIDS Healthcare Foundation Jabi and Primary Health Care Centre Lugbe.
