HIV Prevention
Understanding HIV prevention and treatment
Nigeria has one of the highest HIV burdens in the world. Despite major advances in prevention and treatment, access to the most effective tools remains uneven, particularly for marginalised communities. This article explains what the key prevention options are, how they work, and where you can access them.
1.8-1.9M People living with HIV in Nigeria | 1.3-1.4% Adult prevalence (ages 15-49) | 99% Risk reduction with long-acting injectable PrEP |
What are PrEP and PEP?
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) and PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) are medications that protect against HIV. PrEP is taken before potential exposure to prevent infection, while PEP is an emergency treatment used after a possible exposure has already occurred.
Both may be recommended for people who have had unprotected anal or vaginal sex, shared injectable drug equipment, or experienced another high-risk exposure to HIV. Side effects such as nausea are possible, so speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting either medication.
PEP must be started within 72 hours (3 days) of a possible exposure to be effective. Every hour matters. If you believe you have been exposed, seek medical attention immediately.
How each treatment works over time
Long-acting injectable PrEP options
For people who find daily pills difficult to maintain, two long-acting injectable options are approved and available in Nigeria. Both reduce HIV transmission risk by up to 99%.
| Every 2 months Cabotegravir (CAB-LA) An intramuscular injection administered once every two months by a healthcare provider. | Every 6 months Lenacapavir A subcutaneous injection that provides protection for up to six months per dose. |
HIV testing and treatment
Regular HIV testing is an important part of maintaining your health, especially if you are sexually active. Knowing your status allows you to access care early and protect yourself and others.
If you test positive, effective treatment is available. ART can suppress the virus to undetectable levels when taken as prescribed. When the viral load is undetectable, the virus cannot be transmitted to others (U=U).
Inclusive healthcare facilities in Lagos and Abuja offer HIV testing, PrEP, PEP, and ART. These include the Centre for Population Health Initiatives (CPHI) in Lagos and the International Center for Advocacy on Right to Health (ICARH) in Abuja.
Lenacapavir access by state
Public health initiatives across several Nigerian states provide access to Lenacapavir injections.
| State | Facilities |
|---|---|
| Gombe | One Stop Shop, Gombe Infectious Disease Hospital, Bajoga Gombe State Specialist Hospital |
| Ebonyi | Ebonyi One Stop Shop Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki ROMEC Maternity Hospital |
| Anambra | Federal Medical Center, Onitsha Trauma Center, Oba Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital, Awka |
| Kwara | Kwara One Stop Shop Civil Service Hospital Kwara State University Teaching Hospital |
| Benue | Primary Health Center Daudu Federal Medical Center Makurdi General Hospital North Bank |
| FCT (Abuja) | International Center for Advocacy on Right to Health (ICARH) Lugbe Primary Healthcare Maitama Hospital |
| Cross River | One Stop Shop, Bakassi General Hospital, Calabar General Hospital, Ugep |
| Akwa Ibom | One Stop Shop, Uyo General Hospital, Iquita Oron Immanuel General Hospital, Eket |
HIV prevention and treatment options are more accessible than ever. Whether through condoms, PrEP, PEP, or ART, protecting your health starts with accurate information and regular testing. Know your status and reach out to a healthcare provider or facility near you. Everyone deserves safe, stigma-free care.
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