Benue HIV prevention injection rollout begins as the state launches Lenacapavir to tackle rising HIV prevalence

The Benue State Government has launched Lenacapavir, a long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis injection designed to help prevent HIV transmission.

Also read: Nigeria Records Alarming Surge in HIV Infections in 2026

The rollout was officially unveiled on Wednesday at the State Ministry of Health and Human Services in Makurdi.

Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Paul Ogwuche, described the launch as a historic milestone in the state’s HIV response strategy.

Ogwuche said the Benue HIV Prevention Injection represented a major breakthrough compared to existing daily oral PrEP medication, which has faced challenges linked to adherence, stigma and lifestyle limitations.

He explained that Lenacapavir, administered twice yearly, offers a discreet, convenient and highly effective prevention option for vulnerable populations.

“The Nigeria AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey places Benue State’s HIV prevalence at 4.7 per cent, one of the highest in the country, highlighting the urgent need for bold and innovative interventions,” the commissioner said.

According to him, the programme specifically targets vulnerable groups including adolescent girls, young women, key populations and serodiscordant couples.

Ogwuche described the introduction of the injectable treatment as the arrival of “hope, simplicity and renewed commitment” towards ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030.

The commissioner also commended healthcare workers and PrEP focal persons across facilities in Makurdi, Otukpo, Gboko and Aliade for supporting the implementation process.

He added that the ministry would prioritise equitable access to ensure the treatment reaches both urban and rural communities.

Ogwuche further disclosed that authorities would collaborate with civil society organisations and community networks to increase public awareness, trust and uptake of the new prevention option.

The commissioner also stressed the importance of data-driven monitoring through the State AIDS and STI Control Programme to ensure accountability and measurable outcomes.

He urged healthcare workers to embrace the innovation through compassionate counselling and encouraged the media to promote accurate reporting capable of strengthening public confidence.

The launch ceremony was organised in collaboration with several international and local partners, including the World Health Organization, AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Clinton Health Access Initiative, Tearfund and RedAid Nigeria.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Cephas Hough, described the launch as a significant step in the state’s commitment to reducing HIV transmission through prevention, treatment, care and support services.

Hough noted that the introduction of Lenacapavir reflected the determination of government and development partners to deploy innovative prevention methods capable of improving health outcomes across the state.

He also stressed the continued importance of awareness campaigns, responsible behaviour and sustained community education in reducing HIV transmission.

Also read: WHO Rolls Out Lenacapavir to Curb HIV in Africa

The launch marks a new phase in Benue State’s fight against HIV/AIDS, reinforcing efforts to combine innovation, collaboration and strong leadership in addressing one of the state’s major public health challenges.