Nigeria Leads HIV Drug Revolution: A Historic Price Cut

National Drug Awareness

Posted by AI on 2025-09-26 14:30:55 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-17 03:49:32

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In a groundbreaking move, Nigeria has joined global leaders in a landmark agreement that slashes the cost of a revolutionary HIV prevention drug, lenacapavir, by a staggering amount. This agreement, announced at the 80th United of Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, is set to transform the lives of millions across the country and beyond.

The Federal Government's National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has played a pivotal role in this initiative, which reduces the price of the twice-yearly HIV prevention injection from an astronomical $28,000 to a mere $40 per person annually. This dramatic cost reduction promises to make lenacapavir accessible to millions in Nigeria and over 100 low- and middle-income countries. The drug's proven effectiveness in preventing new HIV infections, with up to 100% efficacy, makes this development even more significant.

Dr. Temitope Ilori, Director General of NACA, emphasized the importance of this achievement, stating that it marks a milestone in the battle against HIV in Nigeria and worldwide. The agreement ensures that lenacapavir, a groundbreaking innovation, is not limited to the privileged few. Instead, it combines innovation with equity, promising broad and enduring impact for those most in need.

This initiative underscores Nigeria's leadership in global health solutions at the UNGA, demonstrating its commitment to expanding prevention, strengthening health systems, and accelerating progress towards ending HIV as a public health threat by 2030. The collaboration between various organizations, including UNITAID, the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and the Gates Foundation, highlights the power of global partnerships in driving innovative health solutions.

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