‎The Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Akwa Ibom State Chapter and Chairman of Uyo Local Government Area, Dr Uwemedimo Udo, has pledged the commitment of all 31 local government councils to drive grassroots sensitisation following the official launch of Lenacapavir (LEN-PrEP), a groundbreaking twice-yearly injectable for HIV prevention.

‎The launch, held at the Primary Health Care Operational Base, Wellington Bassey Way, Uyo on Monday, was performed by the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Her Excellency, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, PhD, and attracted the Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem John, development partners, healthcare professionals, programme implementers, and other critical stakeholders in the health sector. The event was themed, "Advancing HIV Prevention: A New Era with Long-Acting PrEP in Nigeria."

‎Speaking during the event, Dr Uwemedimo Udo described the introduction of LEN-PrEP as a landmark intervention that will significantly strengthen HIV prevention efforts and improve public health outcomes across the state.

‎The ALGON Chairman commended the State Governor, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, for his commitment to the health sector, noting that the administration's sustained investments in healthcare infrastructure, programmes and policies have continued to improve access to quality healthcare services for residents of Akwa Ibom State.

‎He also applauded the Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem John, for the remarkable milestones recorded under his leadership, especially in implementing innovative initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery.

‎Dr Udo emphasised that the success of the newly introduced HIV prevention initiative would depend on widespread awareness and community participation, assuring that local government councils across the state would leverage their grassroots structures to educate residents on the benefits of LEN-PrEP and encourage informed health decisions.

‎The ALGON Chairman reaffirmed the readiness of local government councils to collaborate with the state government, development partners and other stakeholders in advancing healthcare initiatives that contribute to a healthier and more productive Akwa Ibom State.

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