From 17–20 February 2026, Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS) participated in a four‑day step-down training for healthcare workers on Pre‑Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) in Cross River State. The training focused on daily and event driven oral PrEP, as well as long acting injectable options, including Lenacapavir (LEN PrEP) and Cabotegravir Long Acting (CAB‑LA). 

The capacity building initiative brought together facility based healthcare workers from six Local Government Areas, alongside key implementing partners. Its objective was to equip providers with the knowledge and practical skills required to deliver high‑quality, client ‑centered PrEP services, particularly in preparation for emerging injectable prevention options.

This training marks a critical preparatory milestone ahead of the planned pilot rollout of LEN PrEP across six selected health facilities in the state. By strengthening provider readiness, the initiative lays a solid foundation for the successful introduction and uptake of long‑acting HIV prevention technologies. During a goodwill message, ECEWS emphasized the strategic importance of integrating comprehensive HIV prevention services into Nigeria’s national response, noting that prevention remains central to achieving sustainable epidemic control. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to supporting innovative, people‑centered approaches that expand prevention choices for individuals at risk. 

Long‑acting injectable PrEP forms a key component of combination HIV prevention, designed for the general population as well as persons at high risk of HIV acquisition. These options are approved for individuals aged 18 years and above, weighing at least 35 kg, and are not currently recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. 

Overall, the training underscores ECEWS’ continued commitment to expanding access to effective HIV prevention services and supporting the rollout of innovative biomedical interventions to improve public health outcomes in Nigeria.