Cross River State has become one of the first states in Nigeria to roll out Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking twice-yearly HIV prevention injection considered a major advancement in global efforts to end new HIV infections.
Health authorities say the long-acting injectable Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, PrEP, is expected to transform HIV prevention by improving compliance, reducing stigma and expanding access to vulnerable populations at high risk of infection.
The twice-yearly HIV prevention injection, Lenacapavir, was officially launched at the General Hospital Calabar, with government officials, global health partners and HIV response stakeholders in attendance.
Governor Bassey Otu represented by the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Ayuk, described the rollout as a major public health milestone, and a reflection of the state government’s commitment to innovative healthcare delivery.
He said Cross River’s selection among only eight pilot states, underscores growing confidence in the state’s HIV response structure.
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Stakeholders at the event called for sustained awareness campaigns, proper monitoring and responsible implementation to ensure the success of the pilot phase.
Health officials say the outcome of the pilot programme in Cross River and other selected states would shape Nigeria’s next phase of HIV prevention strategy.
Editor: Roluke Ogundele
