By Kingsley Agim
The Cross River State Government has launched the Lenacapavir Injectable Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), a groundbreaking long-acting HIV prevention intervention, at the General Hospital, Calabar, marking a major step in efforts to curb new HIV infections and improve public health outcomes.
Speaking during the launch on Monday, May 18, 2026, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Egbe Ayuk, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Jonah Offor, described the initiative as a significant milestone in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.
He said Cross River was among only eight states selected for the pilot phase of the intervention, adding that the introduction of Lenacapavir reflects the commitment of the administration of Bassey Otu to innovative and people-centred healthcare delivery.
According to him, unlike daily oral medications, Lenacapavir provides a long-acting preventive option administered twice yearly, improving adherence, privacy and convenience for vulnerable persons at risk of
