Benue Govt Unveils Long-Acting Lenacapavir for HIV Prevention, As State Ranks Highest In Nigeria

From Attah Ede, Makurdi 
The Benue State Government, on Wednesday  formally unveiled Lenacapavir (LEN), a long-acting Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for the prevention of HIV in the State.

Speaking during event, the State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ogwuche, stated  that for many years HIV prevention has relied heavily on daily oral PrEP, which, despite saving lives, has faced challenges related to adherence, stigma and lifestyle barriers.

He described the occasion as a historic turning point in Benue State’s HIV response, stressing that, Lenacapavir is an injectable drug that can be administered twice-yearly and now offers a discreet, convenient and highly effective prevention option.

The commissioner noted that the Nigeria AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey (NAIIS) places Benue State’s HIV prevalence at 4.7 percent, one of the highest in the country, highlighting the urgent need for bold and innovative interventions to protect vulnerable populations including adolescent girls, young women, key populations and serodiscordant couples.

He described the launch as the introduction of “hope, simplicity and renewed commitment” toward ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030.

"I want to extend government appreciation to development partners and implementing agencies whose technical expertise and support made the rollout possible. I must commend healthcare workers and PrEP focal persons across facilities in Makurdi, Otukpo, Gboko, Aliade and other parts of the state for their dedication to planning and implementation.

"The Ministry will prioritise equitable access, ensuring Lenacapavir services reach both urban and rural communities, adding that it will also work with civil society and community networks to build trust, increase uptake, and track programme outcomes through the State AIDS and STI Control Programme to ensure accountability and measurable impact", Ogwuche maintained.

He called on healthcare workers to embrace the innovation and provide compassionate counselling, while urging the media to promote accurate and responsible reporting that will strengthen public confidence and awareness.

According to him, the launch strongly reflects the health vision of Hyacinth Alia which has prioritised strengthening preventive healthcare and disease control, expanding access to innovative and life-saving medical interventions, promoting partnerships with global health organisations, protecting vulnerable populations and improving community wellbeing as well as building a resilient and responsive healthcare system.

" Governor’s vision emphasises that no citizen should be left behind in accessing quality healthcare services. Therefore, the rollout of Lenacapavir aligns directly with this agenda by expanding prevention options, improving access to modern medical innovations, and strengthening the state’s capacity to reduce HIV infections.

"I implore potential beneficiaries to visit designated health facilities and engage with trained focal persons to access the new prevention service.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Cephas Hough, described the launch as a significant step forward in the state’s long-standing commitment to reducing the burden of HIV through prevention, treatment, care and support services.

He noted that the introduction of Lenacapavir demonstrates the shared resolve of government and partners to provide innovative and effective prevention options capable of improving health outcomes for the people of Benue State.

While acknowledging the scientific advancement represented by the long-acting injectable, he stressed the continued importance of awareness, responsible behaviour, and sustained community education in preventing HIV transmission.

He explained that the launch represents not only the introduction of a new medication but also the strengthening of awareness, prevention, and shared community responsibility in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Stakeholders at the event highlighted the importance of community participation, youth engagement, and sustained public education to ensure the success of the intervention and reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening prevention efforts, expanding access to services and accelerating progress toward an HIV-free generation

The ceremony, organised in collaboration with key partners including the World Health Organization, AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Clinton Health Access Initiative, Tearfund and RedAid Nigeria, brought together development partners, healthcare leaders, civil society organisations, community representatives and the media.