The Federal Government has issued a critical health alert concerning the safety of groundwater in three Nigerian states: Kogi, Lagos, and Kebbi. This warning follows new, alarming assessments that uncovered widespread chemical and microbial pollution in water sources used by numerous communities.
Alarming Test Results and Health Risks
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) confirmed the severe contamination in its most recent review of water quality and flood impacts. The Director-General of NiHSA, Umar Mohammed, presented the findings at a press briefing in Abuja, highlighting that parts of Lokoja Local Government Area in Kogi state showed some of the most disturbing results.
According to the agency, samples collected from wells and boreholes in the affected zones contained unsafe concentrations of dangerous substances. These include lead, cadmium, nitrite, and fluoride, in addition to harmful microorganisms. Mohammed explained that the primary sources of this pollution are sewage infiltration, waste leaching, and the corrosion of aging water pipelines.
The health implications are severe. Lead exposure can cause neurological damage, while cadmium negatively impacts the kidneys. The presence of nitrites is linked to blue-baby syndrome in infants, and high fluoride levels can lead to bone and dental deformities.
Specific test results from Lokoja revealed lead concentrations ranging from 0.56 to 12.0 mg/L, figures that drastically exceed safe limits. The detection of bacteria such as E. coli, Streptococcus, and Salmonella confirms faecal contamination and signals a high risk of waterborne disease outbreaks. NiHSA connected part of this problem to damaged drainage systems and the intrusion of floodwaters into water sources, particularly in settlements near rivers.
Contamination Spread Across States
The crisis is not confined to Kogi alone. In Lagos State, identified contamination hotspots include areas within Ikeja and Ikoyi, where samples also confirmed the presence of both chemical pollutants and microbial pathogens.
Similarly, Kebbi State recorded deeply worrying indicators, especially in Argungu Local Government Area. There, tests found arsenic levels between 0.75 and 4 mg/L. Prolonged consumption of water with such arsenic levels can lead to arsenicosis, severe liver complications, and intestinal illnesses.
Official Response and Public Advisory
In reaction to the findings, water engineer Mathew Ajisafe has made a direct appeal to residents of the impacted communities. He urged them to immediately stop using water from wells and boreholes until authorities can guarantee its safety. He also called on state governments to begin the urgent distribution of treated water via their existing water boards.
Mr. Sunday Husseini, the Acting Director of Hydrogeophysics at NiHSA, confirmed that the agency has formally communicated its results to the governments of Lagos, Kogi, and Kebbi states. He noted that Kebbi State has already agreed to partner with NiHSA on a comprehensive state-wide study to pinpoint hotspots of heavy metal contamination. The plan is to integrate water treatment facilities directly into water supply schemes.
"Similar engagements are ongoing with the Lagos and Kogi governments," Husseini added. He also revealed that NiHSA is in the process of developing new hydrological regulations aimed at reducing disaster risks and improving the overall management of water quality, availability, and distribution across Nigeria.
Husseini stressed that integrating robust water quality monitoring with flood forecasts is essential for strengthening national resilience. He concluded with a plea for Nigerians to heed official warnings, adhere to safe water practices, and work collaboratively with authorities to mitigate risks and safeguard public health.
