The Nigerian government has joined global leaders in announcing a historic price reduction for a revolutionary HIV prevention drug, lenacapavir, at the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
The announcement was made on Thursday during the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) 2025 Annual Meeting in New York, held on the sidelines of UNGA.
Under the deal, the cost of lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injection proven to be up to 100 per cent effective in preventing HIV infection, will drop from $28,000 to just $40 per person annually.
The breakthrough is expected to make the medicine accessible to millions across Nigeria and in more than 100 low- and middle-income countries.
Delivering Nigeria’s statement at the event, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Temitope Ilori, described the development as a major step forward.
Ilori noted that the agreement represents a turning point in expanding access to lifesaving innovations.
“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,” she said.
She stressed that the deal ensures the innovation does not remain a privilege for the few but instead delivers equity and long-lasting impact.
About the Author
