The Federal Government has sealed a breakthrough deal that slashes the cost of a life-saving HIV prevention drug, Lenacapavir, from $28,000 to just $40 per patient, in what health experts have described as a game-changer for millions at risk of infection.
The Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr. Temitope Ilori, announced the development on Friday while speaking on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
Ilori said the agreement would expand affordable access to Lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injectable drug proven to be nearly 100 per cent effective in preventing new HIV infections.
“Today marks a milestone in our fight against HIV in Nigeria and globally. Through this landmark access agreement, we are unlocking affordable access to a transformational HIV prevention option that offers longer protection, greater convenience, and renewed hope to millions at risk,” she said.
According to her, the deal “ensures that this breakthrough innovation does not remain a privilege for the few” but instead pairs scientific innovation with equity, thereby laying “the foundation for broad, long-lasting impact for those who need it most.”
The announcement signals Nigeria’s renewed commitment to achieving the global target of ending HIV as a public health threat by 2030, while also strengthening its health systems.
The price reduction was achieved through strong collaborations with UNITAID, the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), Wits RHI, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. (DRL), and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Mrs. Toyin Aderibigbe, Deputy Director of Public Relations at NACA, who confirmed the development in a statement, described the deal as “a bold step toward eliminating barriers to life-saving innovations.”
Nigeria remains one of the countries with the highest HIV burden globally, but health officials believe the new pricing of Lenacapavir will significantly improve access to preventive treatment and help curb new infections.
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