Nigeria secures deal for reduction in price of HIV prevention drug

By Justina Auta

The Nigerian Government has reached a landmark agreement for reduction in price of twice-yearly HIV prevention injection, lenacapavir, from 28,000 dollars to just 40 dollars per person on the sidelines of the ongoing 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

The agreement was in collaboration with UNITAID, the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), Wits RHI, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. (DRL), and The Gates Foundation, Mrs Toyin Aderibigbe, Deputy Director, Public Relations and Protocol Division, National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), disclosed in a statement on Friday.

The drug Lenacapavir is up to 100 per cent effective in preventing new HIV infections.

The Director-General of NACA, Dr Temitope Ilori, who joined global leaders on the sidelines of the 80th UNGA, expressed optimism that the price reduction would make the medicine accessible to millions in Nigeria and other countries.

Ilori, while delivering Nigeria’s statement at the event, said: “Today marks a milestone in our fight against HIV in Nigeria and globally.

“Through this landmark access agreement, we are unlocking affordable access to lenacapavir, a transformational new HIV prevention option that offers longer protection, greater convenience, and renewed hope to millions at risk.

” This agreement ensures that this breakthrough innovation does not remain a privilege for the few. It pairs innovation with equity, laying the foundation for broad, long-lasting impact for those who need it most.”

The announcement underscores Nigeria’s commitment to expand access to prevention, strengthen health systems, and accelerate progress toward ending HIV as a public health threat by 2030.

Nigeria’s participation highlights its resolve not only to be innovative but to deepen global partnerships and secure a healthier and more resilient future for its people. (NAN)