The Akwa Ibom government has launched the Long-Acting Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, LENACAPAVIR (LEN-PrEP) drug, a new HIV injectable prevention therapy aimed at boosting the State’s response to growing infection.
The launch of the initiative, which was done by Akon Eyakenyi, Deputy Governor, on behalf of Governor Umo Eno at Primary Healthcare Operational Base, Barracks Road, Uyo, the State capital, underscored the commitment of the State Government in responding to HIV prevention in the State.
Eyakenyi, who described the introduction of LENACAPAVIR (LEN-PrEP) as a major breakthrough in medical science and a significant milestone in the fight against HIV/AIDS, urged that the intervention should be made accessible to residents who require it.
She said HIV remains a major public health challenge globally and in Africa, noting that Nigeria still has a high burden of the disease, with Akwa Ibom recording a prevalence rate above the national average.
According to her, beyond health implications, HIV has affected families, strained public resources and impacted national productivity, while stigma against people living with the virus has continued to hinder effective response efforts.
